RCB into the Finals for the fourth time ever, and the first since 2016. With skipper Rajat Patidar at the helm, RCB thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 8 wickets in a crushing display in Qualifier 1. With an explosive fifty by Phil Salt and a top-class bowling display, RCB has secured a spot in the IPL 2025 final, which will be played in Ahmedabad on June 3.
RCB Crush PBKS to Secure IPL 2025 Final Spot
In a one-sided RCB vs PBKS thriller, the Bengaluru outfit dominated the Punjab Kings in all three departments. PBKS folded for 101 runs in only 14.1 overs. RCB completed the chase in only 10 overs, courtesy of Phil Salt’s unbeaten 56 off 27 balls. The team was confident, composed, and in complete command mode, showing strong intent going into the final.
Patidar Speaks Out: “We Knew Our Plans Clearly”
Following the captaincy of RCB to the finals, leader Rajat Patidar lauded the execution and thought process of his side.
“I think our plans were clear about how we had to bowl. The fast bowlers used the surface well, and Suyash Sharma’s control with line and length was excellent,” said Patidar.
He stressed that their attention was on targeting the stumps and supporting bowlers such as Suyash to perform what they’re best at even if it comes at the cost of a few extra runs.
Strategic Bowling: Kudos to Fast Bowlers and Suyash Sharma
Fast bowlers coaxed seam and bounce out of the surface, shaking up PBKS early. Suyash Sharma, the leg-spinner, also had a significant contribution with his eye-deceiving googlies, which kept the Punjab batsmen on the back foot during the entire day.
Patidar added:
“As a captain, I don’t want to confuse Suyash. I always give him a clear idea that his strength is to hit the stumps, and that’s what he focuses on.”
RCB Into the Finals – How Many Times RCB Reached The IPL Final?
2009 – Lost to Deccan Chargers
2011 – Lost to Chennai Super Kings
2016 – Lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad
2025 – Now, an opportunity for redemption
High Praise for Phil Salt’s Powerplay Brilliance
Captain Patidar also praised Phil Salt, who played a match-winning knock that made the chase effortless:
“The way he’s been giving us explosive starts in most matches, I’m a big fan. Watching him from the dugout is an absolute pleasure.”
Salt’s form will be key for RCB in the final, especially if they’re chasing or setting a target on a tricky Ahmedabad pitch.
RCB Fans: The 12th Man
Patidar ended his after-match speech, thanking RCB supporters for their insane support at various venues, “We feel like we are playing at home, wherever we go. Thank you for the support, just one more game to go, and let’s celebrate together.”
Can RCB Break Their Final Jinx in 2025?
As RCB qualifies for the finals for the fourth time, this team has a golden opportunity to win that coveted trophy. The players are in great shape, they have a plan, and the leadership is calm and confident. The focus now shifts to June 3, as RCB looks to make history in Ahmedabad.
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