RCB Storms into IPL 2025 Qualifier 1, Bundles Out Punjab Kings for 101
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a dominant all-round performance to seal their place in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1, demolishing Punjab Kings (PBKS) by bowling them out for just 101 runs in a high-stakes clash. With this clinical win, RCB have not only confirmed playoff qualification but also secured a top-two finish, earning them a crucial second shot at making the final.
RCB’s Bowling Masterclass Dismantles PBKS
Bowling first at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, RCB’s pace and spin duo made early inroads into the PBKS batting order. Josh Hazlewood, in his comeback match, struck in the powerplay with sharp movement, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Glenn Maxwell applied the squeeze in the middle overs.
Key Bowling Figures:
- Hazlewood: 3/18 (4 overs)
- Hasaranga: 2/19 (4 overs)
- Siraj: 2/14 (3 overs)
PBKS collapsed from 44/3 to 101 all out in just 15.3 overs, failing to build any partnerships.
Faf and Kohli Seal the Chase in Style
Chasing a modest target of 102, RCB’s opening pair Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis ensured there were no hiccups. Kohli played the anchor while Faf went after the bowlers, maintaining a healthy run rate and finishing the chase with 9 wickets in hand and nearly 6 overs to spare.
Top Batters:
- Faf du Plessis: 48* (31 balls)
- Virat Kohli: 39* (33 balls)
RCB’s Road to the Final Now Clearer
This win means RCB finishes in the top two, allowing them to play in Qualifier 1, where the winner directly advances to the IPL 2025 Final. Even if they lose Qualifier 1, they’ll get another shot in Qualifier 2 against the Eliminator winner.
Player of the Match: Josh Hazlewood
The Aussie quick was awarded Player of the Match for his fiery spell that dismantled PBKS’s top order. His return has added much-needed depth and confidence to RCB’s bowling attack as they enter the playoffs.
Fan Reactions: “Ee Sala Cup Namde?”
The RCB fanbase erupted in celebration on social media with chants of #PlayBold, #Qualifier1Secured, and the ever-popular #EeSalaCupNamde trending across platforms. Fans believe this could finally be RCB’s year to lift their first IPL title.
Final Word
With momentum on their side, star performers stepping up, and a settled playing XI, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have announced themselves as serious contenders for the IPL 2025 title. As they prepare for Qualifier 1, one thing is clear — RCB is peaking at just the right time.