IPL 2025: RCB crush Punjab Kings to seal spot in final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stormed into the IPL 2025 final with a dominant eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Thursday.

After winning the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar chose to bowl first — a decision that proved spot on as his bowlers dismantled the Kings’ batting lineup. Punjab were bowled out for just 101 runs in 14.1 overs, with only Marcus Stoinis (26 off 17), Prabhsimran Singh, and Azmatullah Omarzai (18 each) reaching double digits.

Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood led the attack for RCB with three wickets apiece. Yash Dayal grabbed two, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Romario Shepherd took one each.

In reply, RCB chased down the target with ease, reaching 106 for 2 in just 10 overs. Phil Salt starred with the bat, smashing an unbeaten 56 from 27 balls, including six fours and three sixes. After Virat Kohli (12) was dismissed early, Salt built a quick 54-run stand with Mayank Agarwal (19), followed by an unbroken partnership with captain Patidar (15* off 8) to seal the victory.

Punjab Kings now have one more chance to reach the final. They will take on the winner of the Eliminator between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 on Sunday.