RCB Defeats PBKS in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 for Final Berth

MULLANPUR, Chandigarh — The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2025 on May 29, 2025. The match took place at the New PCA Stadium, marking a significant moment for RCB as they secured a place in the final.

RCB, chasing a low target of 102 runs, completed the job in just 10 overs, scoring 106 runs with eight wickets in hand. Phil Salt led the charge with a blistering 56 off just 27 balls. Skipper Rajat Patidar opted to bowl first after winning the toss, a decision that paid off handsomely.

Bowling for RCB also shone brightly, as Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma each took three wickets, restricting Punjab to a mere 101 runs. PBKS struggled throughout their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals. They were ultimately bowled out in just 14.1 overs.

Punjab’s captain, Shreyas Iyer, acknowledged the defeat, noting the team’s lack of experience in high-pressure situations. “We’ll need to regroup and focus on our next match,” he said. PBKS still has a chance to qualify for the final, but they will need to win their next game against the winner of the Eliminator.

This match highlighted the contrasting fortunes of both teams. While RCB celebrated their fourth appearance in the IPL final, Punjab has not reached this stage since 2014. Their performance today reflected their struggles, and they’ll need to address several issues to have a shot at the title this season.

With RCB looking strong and confident, the rest of the teams in the tournament will be wary of their capabilities as they aim for their first IPL title. The stage is set for the final, and both teams are eager to claim glory.