RCB Suffer First Away Defeat, Momentum in Question Ahead of Playoffs
In a major setback during the closing stretch of the IPL 2025 league stage, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) suffered their first away defeat of the season, falling to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 42 runs at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. While RCB have already qualified for the playoffs, this unexpected loss has raised serious concerns about their momentum and readiness for knockout cricket.
SRH Outplay RCB in All Departments
Batting first, SRH posted a strong total of 192/6, with explosive knocks from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen. RCB’s bowling unit, including returning star Josh Hazlewood, struggled to contain the SRH batters during the death overs.
In response, RCB’s chase faltered early. Despite Virat Kohli’s steady 39 and a late burst from Dinesh Karthik, the team crumbled under scoreboard pressure, getting bowled out for 150.
Loss Impacts Net Run Rate and Top-Two Prospects
Before the match, RCB were in a strong position to challenge for a top-two finish, but this defeat severely dented their Net Run Rate (NRR) — a key tiebreaker in the final standings. With other teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings performing consistently, RCB’s qualification to Qualifier 1 now depends on both a big win in their final match and favorable outcomes elsewhere.
Faf du Plessis Stresses Team Regrouping
RCB captain Faf du Plessis admitted the team was below par:
“We were off the mark today. The challenge now is to bounce back strong in our final game — and head into the playoffs with confidence.”
The focus now shifts to their final league match against Lucknow Super Giants, which is shaping up to be a must-win fixture.
Are RCB Losing Steam at the Wrong Time?
RCB’s impressive run in away matches had become a key part of their 2025 story, but the recent defeat has put that momentum into question. The team’s middle-order inconsistencies and bowling in the final overs remain critical issues to fix before the playoffs begin.
Fan Reactions Mixed But Hopeful
While fans were disappointed by the performance, they continue to back the team on social media. Hashtags like #PlayBold, #BounceBackRCB, and #EeSalaCupNamde2025 are trending as the RCB faithful gear up for one last push in the league stage.
Final Word
One loss doesn’t define a season — but for RCB, timing is everything. With one match left to restore rhythm and secure a better playoff path, the pressure is on. Whether this was just a stumble or a warning sign, the next fixture will tell.