The final league-stage match of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 promises a thrilling climax, as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 70 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. In a strategic move, RCB captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and opted to field first, putting LSG into bat.
This game is not just a match—it’s a decider for the top-two spot in the IPL 2025 points table. If RCB secures a win, they will jump to 19 points and cement a place in Qualifier 1, joining the league leader in the race for a direct ticket to the final. However, if Lucknow pulls off a win at home, RCB will slip to third place, and their journey will be routed through the Eliminator, a more precarious path to the title.
Playing XIs Announced
Both teams have gone with a balanced combination, indicating their intent to dominate from ball one.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI:
Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (captain/wicketkeeper), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Nuwan Thushara
Lucknow Super Giants Playing XI:
Mitchell Marsh, Matthew Breetzke, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (captain/wicketkeeper), Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Digvyesh Singh Rathi, Avesh Khan, William O’Rourke
Playoff Scenario in Focus
The playoff equation adds a dramatic undertone to this already intense encounter. With Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings already out of contention, the top-four battle has come down to net run rates and final-match victories.
If RCB wins: They finish with 19 points and book a place in Qualifier 1, likely facing Rajasthan Royals or Kolkata Knight Riders.
If LSG wins: RCB will drop to third or fourth, entering the Eliminator and facing the added pressure of a knockout game.
Key Players to Watch
Virat Kohli: The former captain has been in tremendous form, anchoring RCB’s batting with consistent scores.
Nicholas Pooran & Rishabh Pant: LSG’s middle-order powerhouse duo will be crucial in setting or chasing a competitive total.
Jitesh Sharma: His dual role as wicketkeeper-captain adds tactical edge, and his finishing abilities may turn the game late.
Venue and Pitch Report
The Ekana Stadium pitch has offered help to both pacers and spinners throughout the season. A total around 170-180 could be competitive, with dew potentially playing a role in the second innings. Captains have generally preferred chasing here, making RCB’s decision to bowl first a logical one.
Live Coverage and Streaming
Fans can catch the live action on Star Sports Network and stream the match on JioCinema for free. Live scorecards and ball-by-ball commentary are also available on IPL’s official website and app.
