RCB Storm into IPL 2025 Final After Crushing Punjab Kings
In a powerful display of dominance and determination, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a spot in the IPL 2025 final by defeating Punjab Kings by eight wickets. The thrilling qualifier match took place in New Chandigarh, where RCB’s bowlers and batters combined forces to overwhelm Punjab. The significance of this victory goes far beyond the scoreboard—this marks Bengaluru’s first IPL final appearance in nine years, reigniting the hopes of a fanbase that has waited patiently for glory.
The commanding performance underlines RCB’s hunger for their maiden title in the Indian Premier League. From explosive bowling spells to a clinical chase, every element of their game fired with precision at the right moment.
Josh Hazlewood’s Heroic Return Powers Bengaluru’s Dominance
RCB’s decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends as Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, returning from a shoulder injury, delivered a fiery spell. He claimed 3 wickets for 21 runs, including the key dismissals of Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer and last-match hero Josh Inglis. His aggressive line and length shook Punjab’s top order, giving Bengaluru the upper hand early in the match.
Hazlewood’s presence added sharpness and intensity to RCB’s bowling unit, which had already shown promise throughout the tournament. His control under pressure was pivotal and highlighted his importance heading into the final.
Meanwhile, Yash Dayal struck early, removing opener Priyansh Arya for 7 runs. Soon after, Prabhsimran Singh was dismissed for 18, and Punjab found themselves struggling for stability. RCB’s bowlers were relentless, and their discipline ensured Punjab never found any breathing space.
Suyash Sharma Spins Magic, Punjab Collapses Under Pressure
As Hazlewood tormented with pace, leg-spinner Suyash Sharma spun a web around Punjab’s middle order. He picked up three crucial wickets, including the game-changing dismissal of Marcus Stoinis, who briefly threatened with a 26-run knock off 17 balls.
Suyash’s spell turned the tide further in Bengaluru’s favor. His double-wicket over left Punjab reeling, and his variations made it nearly impossible for the batters to settle. He was deservedly named Player of the Match, a reward for his tactical awareness and game-changing role.
Punjab’s batting lineup collapsed under mounting pressure. Within 6.3 overs, they had lost half their side. Nehal Wadhera was bowled by Dayal, and the middle order simply couldn’t recover.
Azmatullah Omarzai was the last man standing, helping Punjab cross the 100-run mark. But his resistance was short-lived as Hazlewood returned to claim the final wicket. Punjab were bowled out for 101 runs in just 14.1 overs, a total far below par for a qualifier.
Phil Salt Anchors Chase as Bengaluru Crush Punjab Kings
Chasing a target of 102, Royal Challengers Bengaluru approached the innings with calm precision. Though Virat Kohli was dismissed early for 12, caught behind off Kyle Jamieson, RCB never looked rattled.
Phil Salt, who has been consistent throughout the season, once again delivered with the bat. He remained unbeaten on 56 runs, guiding the team home with composure and maturity. His knock included smart singles, well-timed boundaries, and a clear understanding of the match situation.
Salt shared a 54-run partnership with Mayank Agarwal (19 runs), ensuring there were no hiccups. After Agarwal’s dismissal, captain Rajat Patidar stepped in and added a quick 15 runs. He sealed the victory with a six, finishing the match in just 10 overs and giving RCB a convincing eight-wicket win.
Salt summarized the team’s mood best: “It just gives us momentum. Cliché, but it’s true. At the back end of the tournament, you want to hit your straps.”
RCB Reaches Fourth Final, Ends Nine-Year Wait
This win is monumental for RCB. It marks their fourth appearance in an IPL final, and the first since 2016. For nine long years, the team and its supporters have endured heartbreaks and near-misses. Now, with just one game standing between them and the trophy, dreams have been reignited across the RCB fan universe.
The team’s journey to the final has been built on a foundation of solid performances, clarity in roles, and effective leadership. Under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, Bengaluru have played with poise and focus. This version of RCB appears mentally stronger, more adaptable, and ready to break the title jinx.
Punjab Kings Will Get One More Chance at Qualification
Despite the defeat, Punjab Kings still have a lifeline. They will play the winner of the eliminator match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in the second qualifier scheduled for June 3. A win there could still see them in the final.
Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer took the loss on the chin and remained optimistic. “Not a day to forget, but got to go back to the drawing board. We’ve lost the battle, but not the war,” he said after the match.
With a day to recover and recalibrate, Punjab will aim to bounce back stronger. Their qualification chances are still alive, but their margin for error is now razor-thin.
A Disrupted Season, Yet Bengaluru Maintains Composure
The 2025 IPL season faced a major disruption due to a military conflict between India and Pakistan, which led to a nine-day suspension of the tournament. The revised schedule caused a collision with international cricket fixtures, resulting in some overseas players, like Jos Buttler from Gujarat Titans, missing the playoffs.
In spite of these interruptions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru remained focused. Their ability to adapt, rotate players, and stay united as a team has been instrumental. The side has matured both on and off the field, a key trait in navigating such an unpredictable season.
Their balance in the squad, both in terms of youth and experience, has helped them weather every challenge and emerge stronger.
Bengaluru’s Form Peaks at the Right Time
For any team aiming for a title, timing their form is crucial. RCB seems to have mastered that. The players are peaking just when it matters the most. From Salt’s composed batting to Hazlewood’s fiery comeback and Sharma’s clever spin, each department is clicking into gear.
Bengaluru’s run in the playoffs is being driven by momentum, discipline, and team unity—qualities often associated with champions. The hunger is evident, and the performances are speaking for themselves.
Bengaluru One Win Away From Creating History
With the final just around the corner, Royal Challengers Bengaluru find themselves on the brink of creating history. The trophy that has eluded them for so long is now within touching distance.
The team’s evolution throughout IPL 2025 has been impressive. They started with intent, overcame disruptions, and have now delivered a statement win in the qualifier. Their biggest test awaits, but so does their biggest opportunity.
As RCB prepare for the final, their fans will hope that this is finally the year when the stars align. With form on their side and belief in their hearts, Bengaluru’s path to redemption has never looked brighter.
