In a thrilling clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated the Capitals by 6 wickets with nine balls to spare in match 46 of IPL 2025. RCB, after winning the toss and opting to bowl first, executed a clinical chase to strengthen their playoff hopes.
Batting first, the Capitals managed to put up a modest total of 162/8 in their allotted 20 overs. KL Rahul anchored the innings with a cautious 41 off 39 balls, while Tristan Stubbs added a brisk 34 off just 18 deliveries. Abishek Porel’s fiery cameo of 28 from 11 balls gave the innings some late impetus. However, RCB’s disciplined bowling attack ensured the Capitals couldn’t break free.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the standout with the ball for RCB, claiming 3 wickets for 33 runs in his 4 overs. Josh Hazlewood also chipped in with crucial figures of 2/36, while Krunal Pandya contributed with an economical 1/28.
Chasing 163 for victory, RCB were guided by a composed half-century from their star player Virat Kohli, who scored 51 off 47 balls. But the real hero of the evening was Krunal Pandya, whose unbeaten 73 off 47 balls steered RCB home. Krunal’s innings was a masterclass in pacing a chase, combining intelligent placement with aggressive shot-making when needed.
Despite Capitals’ Axar Patel producing an impressive spell (2/19 in 4 overs), and Dushmantha Chameera grabbing a wicket, the RCB batting depth proved too strong. Tim David also played a crucial role towards the end, smashing 19* off just 5 deliveries to finish the game in style.
RCB wrapped up the chase in 18.3 overs, scoring 165/4 and securing a vital win in the race for the playoffs. With this victory, RCB further solidifies its position in the points table while Capitals continue to struggle for consistency.
The atmosphere at Arun Jaitley Stadium was electric, especially whenever Virat Kohli was on strike, with chants of “King Kohli” echoing across the ground. This win once again underlines RCB’s growing confidence as the business end of the tournament approaches.
Key Performances:
- Krunal Pandya: 73* (47) and 1/28 (4)
- Virat Kohli: 51 (47)
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar: 3/33 (4)
- KL Rahul: 41 (39)
- Tim David: 19* (5)
RCB fans will hope their heroes can maintain this momentum as they eye their maiden IPL trophy.
