Mon. 02 Jun 2025
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Date: 30-may-2025 | By: Nuztrend Team
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the IPL final for the first time since 2016 with a powerful 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on Friday. The match, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, saw RCB’s top-order batters and disciplined bowling unit rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Batting first after losing the toss, Punjab Kings posted a below-par total of 153/8 in their 20 overs. Despite a brisk start, the team stumbled in the middle overs, losing key wickets to RCB’s spin duo. Rajat Patidar and Mohammed Siraj were particularly effective, choking the run flow and forcing errors.
In response, RCB chased down the target with 12 balls to spare, thanks to a brilliant start from their openers. Captain Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli put on a 91-run stand that set the tone for the comfortable chase. Glenn Maxwell added the finishing touches with a fiery cameo.
“We’ve been waiting for this moment since 2016. The team has worked incredibly hard and the belief in the camp is strong,” said Du Plessis in the post-match presentation.
This win puts RCB one step away from lifting their maiden IPL trophy. The team has shown remarkable consistency this season, with balanced contributions from batters and bowlers alike. Fans are now hopeful that this could finally be the year RCB ends their title drought.
RCB will now await the winner of Qualifier 2, who will join them in the highly anticipated final match.
For Punjab Kings, the loss is yet another blow to their playoff record. Despite flashes of brilliance during the league stage, they failed to deliver under knockout pressure. The team’s management will need to reassess their strategy and key player performances ahead of the next season.
The final showdown is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 2, with RCB poised to fight for their long-awaited title. With momentum, form, and fan support on their side, RCB might just turn history in their favor.
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