Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) booked their place in the IPL 2025 final with a resounding 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings in the first qualifier. In a forgettable outing, Punjab were bundled out for a paltry 101 runs, marking one of the lowest totals in IPL playoff history.
This win marks RCB’s return to the IPL final after a gap of nine years. The victory was powered by a fiery spell from Josh Hazlewood and a blistering unbeaten knock from opener Phil Salt, who scored 56 off just 27 balls.
Punjab Kings’ batting collapsed spectacularly in the face of RCB’s ruthless bowling attack, surrendering without resistance. Their total of 101 is now the second-lowest team score in IPL playoff history.
Chasing the modest target, RCB lost opener Virat Kohli for 12 and Mayank Agarwal for 19, but Phil Salt’s aggressive half-century ensured a smooth chase. Salt remained unbeaten and was ably supported by captain Rajat Patidar, who contributed a quick 15 off 8 balls.
RCB chased down the target with 10 overs to spare, sealing a dominant win and a spot in the IPL final for the fourth time in franchise history. Despite reaching the final three times previously, RCB have yet to lift the coveted trophy.
With this victory, RCB's hopes of clinching their maiden IPL title remain alive, as they head into the final with strong momentum.
