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🏏 IPL 2025 Final Dreams Brighten as RCB Crush PBKS in Qualifier 1
The IPL 2025 Final is now within sight for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after they dominated and recorded a historic victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1. RCB secured an emphatic 8-wicket win with 60 balls to spare, setting a new record for the biggest win by balls remaining in IPL playoff history. This win sends RCB into their fourth IPL final. After years of disappointment, their dream of lifting the IPL trophy finally is burning brighter than ever.
RCB last reached the IPL final in 2016. Interestingly, that final also fell on this exact date nine years ago. Now, the team aims to turn history in their favor on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad — the largest cricket venue in the world. 🏟️ The stage is set for a thrilling IPL 2025 Final, and RCB hopes both skill and fortune will back them.
⚡ Early Domination: How RCB Took Control in the IPL 2025 Final Qualifier
The game’s outcome was effectively decided within the first six overs. Punjab Kings entered with the second-best PowerPlay scoring rate this season (10.02 runs per over). In contrast, RCB boasted the tournament’s best bowling economy rate (8.79) and highest dot-ball percentage (43.5%) during the PowerPlay.
Led by the return of fiery fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, RCB dismantled the PBKS top order, taking four wickets inside the PowerPlay. This collapse left PBKS reeling at 48/4, severely denting their chances. The early breakthroughs swung momentum decisively toward RCB in this crucial IPL 2025 Final qualifier.
🎯 Key Performances: Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma Shine with the Ball
After winning the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar elected to bowl first on a pitch with grass and seam movement. Hazlewood exploited these conditions expertly, delivering a superb spell with 3 wickets for 21 runs. His dismissals of PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer and dangerous batsman Josh Inglis proved crucial.
Young leg-spinner Suyash Sharma complemented him by weaving his magic in the middle overs. Using smart variations and deceptive googlies, Suyash took 3 wickets for just 17 runs. Their combined efforts bowled PBKS out cheaply for 101 runs inside 14.1 overs. The relentless pressure from RCB bowlers ensured PBKS never built meaningful partnerships or regained control.
💥 Phil Salt’s Blazing Knock Seals IPL 2025 Final Spot for RCB
Chasing a modest target of 102, RCB started steadily but soon gained momentum through opener Phil Salt. The Englishman unleashed dazzling aggressive strokeplay, scoring an unbeaten 56 runs off just 27 balls. His innings featured 8 fours and 2 towering sixes. Salt’s ability to find gaps and punish loose deliveries made the chase look effortless.
Although RCB lost experienced Virat Kohli early for 12, Salt’s brilliant batting kept the scoreboard ticking. The game wrapped up within 10 overs as RCB cruised to victory with eight wickets in hand, sealing their place in the IPL 2025 Final.
🧹 Smooth Chase, Record Victory Margin
After Salt’s dismissal, Mayank Agarwal tried to fight back but couldn’t stay long. Then, RCB captain Rajat Patidar sealed the match with classy boundary hitting — a four and a six off the debutant spinner Musheer Khan.
RCB’s 60-ball victory margin now stands as the largest in IPL playoff history, illustrating their dominance throughout the game. This comprehensive win shows their intent and readiness to finally claim the IPL title in the upcoming IPL 2025 Final.
📊 Match Stats and Key Insights
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab Kings | 101 all out (14.1) | Marcus Stoinis 26; Hazlewood 3-21, Suyash Sharma 3-17 |
| RCB | 106/2 (10 overs) | Phil Salt 56*; Jamieson 1-27 |
RCB’s balanced approach in batting and bowling made the key difference. Their bowlers exploited conditions perfectly, while their batsmen showed calmness and aggression at the right moments, proving they are ready for the IPL 2025 Final challenge.
🏟️ IPL 2025 Final: What Lies Ahead for RCB and PBKS?
The IPL 2025 Final will take place on June 3 in Ahmedabad, where RCB will aim to lift their first-ever IPL trophy after a 17-year wait. This qualifier win gives them a huge confidence boost. RCB will enjoy a few days of rest before preparing for the big day.
Meanwhile, PBKS still have one more chance to reach the final via the second qualifier. They must face the winner of the eliminator match and raise their game significantly to get past the in-form RCB side again.
