Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) returned to winning ways with a convincing 7-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 37 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. Chasing a modest target of 158, RCB cruised home in 18.5 overs thanks to a match-winning unbeaten 73 by Virat Kohli and a fluent 61 from Devdutt Padikkal.
RCB Bowlers Set the Tone
After winning the toss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis opted to bowl first, a decision that paid immediate dividends. PBKS never really got going, as RCB’s bowlers kept a tight grip on the scoring rate. Suyash Sharma was the standout performer, picking up two crucial wickets for 26 runs in his four overs, including a double strike in one over that tilted momentum in RCB’s favor. He was well supported by Krunal Pandya (2/25) and Romario Shepherd (1/18), who bowled with accuracy and discipline.
Punjab Kings ended their innings at 157/6 in 20 overs, a total that looked slightly under par on a good batting surface.
PBKS Innings Summary
- Prabhsimran Singh gave Punjab a brisk start with a quick 33 off 17 balls.
- Josh Inglis chipped in with 29 from 17 deliveries but couldn’t capitalize further.
- Shashank Singh held the innings together with a composed unbeaten 31 off 33 balls.
- PBKS lost wickets at regular intervals and failed to accelerate in the final overs.
Kohli and Padikkal Master the Chase
In response, RCB’s chase was anchored masterfully by Virat Kohli, who continued his sensational form this season. The former skipper remained unbeaten on 73 off 54 balls, showcasing a perfect mix of aggression and control.
He found an able partner in Devdutt Padikkal, who played one of his most fluent knocks of the tournament, scoring 61 from just 35 balls. The duo added a crucial century stand for the second wicket, virtually sealing the game for RCB.
Though Rajat Patidar fell cheaply for 12, RCB crossed the finish line with ease, ending the match at 159/3 in 18.5 overs.
PBKS Bowlers Struggle
Punjab’s bowlers failed to make early inroads, with Arshdeep Singh (1/26 in 3 overs) and Harpreet Brar (1/27 in 4 overs) managing one wicket each. But without scoreboard pressure and dew playing a role, they couldn’t contain the RCB batters.
What This Win Means
This victory gives RCB vital points and momentum as the playoff race heats up. It also marks another milestone for Virat Kohli, who continues to dominate the season with consistent and classy performances. PBKS, on the other hand, will need to revisit their middle-overs batting strategy and find ways to post bigger totals.
Score Summary:
Punjab Kings (PBKS): 157/6 (20 overs)
- Prabhsimran Singh: 33 (17)
- Shashank Singh: 31* (33)
- Josh Inglis: 29 (17)
- Suyash Sharma: 2/26 (4)
- Krunal Pandya: 2/25 (4)
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB): 159/3 (18.5 overs)
- Virat Kohli: 73* (54)
- Devdutt Padikkal: 61 (35)
- Rajat Patidar: 12 (13)
- Arshdeep Singh: 1/26 (3)
- Harpreet Brar: 1/27 (4)
Result: RCB won by 7 wickets with 7 balls to spare
