April 20: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a clinical performance to defeat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a commanding margin, chasing down a modest target of 158 with ease to move joint-top on the IPL 2025 points table with 10 points.
After being asked to bat first, PBKS stumbled early despite a promising start. Openers Priyansh Arya (22) and Prabhsimran Singh (33) gave the home side a quick start, but a dramatic collapse after the powerplay halted their momentum. Captain Shreyas Iyer (6) and Nehal Wadhera (5) failed to contribute, with the latter involved in a mix-up leading to a crucial run-out.
RCB’s spinners, particularly Suyash Sharma, were instrumental in the middle overs. Suyash knocked over Josh Inglis (29) and Marcus Stoinis (1) in a single over, putting PBKS on the back foot. However, a steady lower-order stand between Shashank Singh (31)* and Marco Jansen (25)* helped Punjab post a respectable 157/6.
In reply, RCB’s openers Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal looked in complete control. Arshdeep Singh briefly sparked hope for the home fans by dismissing Phil Salt for just 1 — continuing his impressive record against the Englishman — but that was the lone highlight for PBKS in the second innings.
Kohli and Padikkal stitched together a fluent, unbroken partnership that blunted the Punjab attack. Kohli played the anchor role to perfection, while Padikkal provided aggression when needed. The duo chased down the total with minimal fuss, finishing the job with several overs to spare.
Points Table Impact
With this win, RCB move to 10 points, joining the likes of Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders at the top of the table, but with a superior net run rate. PBKS, meanwhile, continue to struggle for consistency and now face an uphill battle to stay in playoff contention.