Indian Premier League, New Chandigarh
Punjab Kings 101 (14.1 overs): S Sharma 3-17, Hazlewood 3-21
Royal Challengers Bengaluru 106-2 (10 overs): Salt 56* (27)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by eight wickets
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are now just one win away from their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title after demolishing Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in a one-sided playoff clash in New Chandigarh.
RCB produced a dominant all-round performance, skittling Punjab Kings for a paltry 101 in 14.1 overs before chasing down the target in just 10 overs, securing the biggest win by balls remaining in IPL playoff history.
With this victory, RCB advance directly to the final—their first since 2016—while Punjab Kings will face the winners of the Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians eliminator for a shot at the title decider.
Match Recap: RCB’s Clinical Domination
Punjab Kings’ Batting Collapse (101 all out)
Punjab Kings, who had topped the league stage, were left stunned after a disastrous batting performance.
- Powerplay Disaster (38/4):
- PBKS lost four wickets inside the first six overs, with Josh Hazlewood (3-21) and Mohammed Siraj wreaking havoc.
- Openers Shikhar Dhawan (5) and Jonny Bairstow (9) fell cheaply, while Liam Livingstone (2) and Jitesh Sharma (4) failed to counter RCB’s pace attack.
- Spin Strangle (Suyash Sharma 3-17):
- Leg-spinner Suyash Sharma dismantled the middle order, dismissing Sam Curran (8), Harpreet Brar (1), and Kagiso Rabada (0) in quick succession.
- Marcus Stoinis (26) was the lone fighter, but PBKS folded for 101 in 14.1 overs—their lowest total of the season.
RCB’s Ruthless Chase (106/2 in 10 overs)
Chasing a modest 102, RCB made light work of the target, thanks to Phil Salt’s explosive half-century.
- Early Blow (Kohli Departs):
- Kyle Jamieson removed Virat Kohli (12) early, but that was PBKS’ only moment of joy.
- Salt’s Blitz (56 off 27):*
- Phil Salt smashed an unbeaten 56 off just 27 balls, including 6 fours and 3 sixes, registering his fastest IPL fifty (23 balls).
- Rajat Patidar (22 off 12)* finished the match in style with a six off Musheer Khan, sealing the win with 60 balls to spare.
Key Performances
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
✅ Phil Salt (56 off 27)* – Dominant, match-winning knock.
✅ Suyash Sharma (3-17) – Broke PBKS’ backbone with his spin.
✅ Josh Hazlewood (3-21) – Early strikes set the tone.
Punjab Kings
❌ Marcus Stoinis (26) – Only batter to show resistance.
❌ Bowling Failure – No answer to RCB’s aggressive chase.
What’s Next?
- RCB advance to the IPL 2025 Final (May 31).
- PBKS will play the winner of GT vs MI in the Qualifier 2 for a final spot.
Final Verdict
RCB’s most dominant playoff win ever sends a strong message to their potential final opponents. With momentum, firepower, and confidence, they are now the favorites to lift their maiden IPL trophy.
Can Punjab Kings bounce back, or is RCB destined for glory? Stay tuned for more IPL action! 🏆🔥
