In one of the most electrifying matches of the IPL 2025, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pulled off a sensational run chase, defeating the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 6 wickets with 8 balls to spare at the Ekana Cricket Stadium B Ground. Despite a breathtaking century by Rishabh Pant, RCB’s fearless middle order, led by Jitesh Sharma and Virat Kohli, turned the game on its head to clinch a memorable victory in Match 70 of the tournament.
Pant’s Masterclass Goes in Vain
Batting first after losing the toss, LSG posted a colossal 227/3 in 20 overs, thanks to a phenomenal knock by their captain Rishabh Pant, who remained unbeaten on 118 off just 61 balls. The explosive left-hander smashed 8 sixes and dominated the RCB bowling attack with his trademark aggression and innovative strokeplay. He brought up his century in style with a special somersault celebration, silencing critics who had questioned his consistency earlier in the season.
Pant found strong support in Mitchell Marsh, who contributed a powerful 67 off 37 deliveries, setting the platform for the big finish. However, apart from these two, LSG’s batting lacked depth, and the bowlers failed to defend what seemed like a winning total.
Kohli and Jitesh Set Up Epic Run Chase
In reply, RCB came out with a clear intent. Virat Kohli, opening the innings, played a crucial knock of 54 off 30 balls, anchoring the early part of the chase. His strokes oozed class, and he set the tone for what was to come.
The real star of the night, however, was Jitesh Sharma, who delivered one of the best knocks of his IPL career. Walking in with the match finely balanced, Jitesh turned the tide with a blistering 85 off just 33 balls, showcasing remarkable power and precision. His innings included 6 sixes and 7 fours and left the LSG bowlers searching for answers.
Mayank Agarwal provided solid support with an unbeaten 41 off 23, ensuring that RCB crossed the line comfortably in the 19th over, finishing at 230/4 in 18.4 overs.
Bowling Summary
For LSG, the bowlers had a tough outing on a flat batting deck. Will O’Rourke was the most successful but expensive bowler, picking up 2 wickets for 74 runs in his 4 overs. Avesh Khan and Akash Singh took a wicket each, but none of them could contain the run flow.
For RCB, Nuwan Thushara stood out with figures of 1/26 in 4 overs, while Romario Shepherd and Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked up a wicket each but went for plenty.
Turning Point of the Match
The game’s decisive moment came when Jitesh Sharma launched a brutal assault in the 15th and 16th overs, taking 45 runs off just 12 balls during that phase. His power-hitting completely swung the momentum in RCB’s favor, and LSG never recovered.
What’s Next?
With this win, RCB has further solidified their spot in the playoff race, while LSG, despite Pant’s heroics, will need to reassess their bowling strategy moving forward. This match will surely go down as one of the most thrilling high-scoring encounters of IPL 2025.
Score Summary:
LSG: 227/3 (20 overs)
Rishabh Pant 118 (61)
Mitchell Marsh 67 (37)
Nuwan Thushara 1/26 (4)
RCB: 230/4 (18.4 overs)
Jitesh Sharma 85 (33)
Virat Kohli 54 (30)
Mayank Agarwal 41 (23)
Will O’Rourke 2/74 (4)
Result: RCB won by 6 wickets with 8 balls remaining
Venue: Ekana Cricket Stadium B Ground
Toss: RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first
