Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) continued their impressive form in IPL 2025, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 7 wickets. This victory marks RCB's fifth win of the season. Punjab, batting first, managed 157 runs. Bangalore chased down the target in the 19th over.
PBKS vs RCB: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) avenged their defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) from two days prior in IPL 2025. In a match played in Mohali, Bangalore delivered a resounding victory, beating Punjab by 7 wickets. In this match, Virat Kohli created history, becoming the player with the most half-centuries in IPL history.
This match was not just a contest of wins and losses, but also a battle for pride, as Punjab had defeated RCB in a rain-affected match 48 hours earlier. However, this time the story was different. Virat Kohli, once again the hero, played an unbeaten 73, securing victory for his team and adding a new chapter to the record books.
Punjab's Innings Falters
Punjab Kings, after losing the toss, batted first and scored 157 runs in 20 overs. Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow provided a good start, but the middle order faltered. Bairstow scored 36 runs, while Livingstone contributed 25. Bangalore's bowlers bowled tightly, especially Mohammed Siraj and Karn Sharma, who restricted the run rate and prevented Punjab from reaching a larger score. Siraj took 2 wickets and Karn Sharma 1.
RCB's Wobbly Start, but Virat-Padikkal Steer the Ship
Chasing a target of 158, RCB had a shaky start. Faf du Plessis (assuming "Phil Salt" is a mistranslation/typo) was dismissed for 1 run in the first over. However, Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal, who came to the crease next, completely changed the course of the match. They put on a 103-run partnership for the second wicket. Padikkal played a whirlwind innings, scoring 61 runs off 35 balls, including 5 fours and 4 sixes. After his dismissal, captain Rajat Patidar also departed quickly, but Virat Kohli remained steadfast.
Virat's Masterclass
Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 73 off 54 balls, guiding his team to victory in the 19th over. His innings included 8 fours and a six. With this innings, Kohli surpassed David Warner to achieve the record for the most 50+ scores (67 fifties) in IPL history. Kohli's innings showcased a blend of composure, class, and aggression. He took charge when his team needed him most and remained till the end.
With this win, RCB secured their fifth victory in their eighth match, moving up to third place in the points table. Punjab Kings, on the other hand, slipped further down the table after this defeat.
