Bengaluru, April 24, 2025 — The red and gold of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) roared once again at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, thanks to a vintage Virat Kohli masterclass and a dashing half-century from Devdutt Padikkal, setting a challenging 205/5 on the board against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 42 of IPL 2025.
Having been put in to bat after RR won the toss, RCB lost Phil Salt early, but Kohli, in his element, shifted gears with authority. The crowd erupted as he stitched an electric 95-run partnership with Padikkal, dominating bowlers with classic drives, clean pulls, and fearless lofts.
Kohli’s Commanding 70 Sets the Tone
Kohli’s innings — 70 off 42 balls with 8 boundaries and 2 sixes — was a reminder of his prime days. His timing was flawless, and his intent was clear from the outset. It wasn’t just a knock; it was a statement to fans and critics alike that the King still reigns.
His dismissal in the 16th over, caught by Nitish Rana off Jofra Archer, came as a relief for the Royals, but the damage had been done.
Padikkal’s Blazing Fifty Sparks Middle Overs
The left-handed Devdutt Padikkal brought flair and finesse, hammering 50 off just 27 balls with 4 fours and 3 sixes. He looked unstoppable until Sandeep Sharma ended his innings, caught by Nitish Rana again.
Padikkal’s consistency in the tournament has been one of RCB’s biggest positives, and today he delivered under pressure yet again.
David, Sharma Push Total Past 200
Despite a minor wobble with quick wickets — including skipper Rajat Patidar’s cheap dismissal — Tim David (23 off 15) and Jitesh Sharma (20 off 10)* ensured RCB finished strong. Their quickfire cameos, combined with 14 wides from RR’s bowlers, helped push the score past the 200-mark.
RCB’s innings ended at 205/5, a daunting total on a surface that has traditionally aided high-scoring games but can get tricky under lights.
Royals’ Bowling Falters Under Pressure
RR’s bowlers looked unsettled for most of the innings. Sandeep Sharma (4-0-45-2) was the only one to grab more than one wicket but remained expensive. Jofra Archer was economical early but got hit in the death. Tushar Deshpande, bowling only two overs, leaked 36 runs, contributing to the team’s struggles.
Even Wanindu Hasaranga, despite picking up Salt, couldn’t turn the tide. Extras played a big role too — 14 wides and a leg-bye — underlining the lack of discipline.
