April 19, 2025 – Bengaluru:
In a rain-shortened encounter at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Punjab Kings (PBKS) triumphed over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by five wickets in Match 34 of the TATA IPL 2025. This defeat marks RCB’s third consecutive loss on home turf, despite maintaining an unblemished record in away fixtures.
RCB’s Batting Struggles Amidst Tim David’s Resistance
Opting to bat first in a 14-over-per-side match due to inclement weather, RCB faced early setbacks, culminating in a modest total of 95/9. Tim David emerged as the standout performer, delivering an unbeaten 50 off 26 balls, including a sequence of three consecutive sixes in the final over. However, the rest of the batting lineup faltered against PBKS’s disciplined bowling attack.
Yuzvendra Chahal, returning to Bengaluru as an opponent, showcased his prowess with figures of 2/11. Harpreet Brar also made significant contributions, claiming two wickets in a single over. Marco Jansen’s economical spell further restricted RCB’s scoring opportunities.
Punjab Kings’ Steady Chase Led by Nehal Wadhera
Chasing a target of 96, PBKS encountered early hiccups, losing wickets at regular intervals. Josh Hazlewood’s impressive spell of 3/14 kept RCB’s hopes alive. However, Nehal Wadhera anchored the innings with a composed 33* off 19 deliveries, steering PBKS to victory in 12.1 overs.
Wadhera’s calculated aggression, including a pivotal sequence of boundaries in the 11th over, shifted the momentum decisively in PBKS’s favor. His partnership with the middle order ensured that the team crossed the finish line without further setbacks.
RCB’s Home Woes Continue
This loss underscores RCB’s ongoing challenges at their home ground. Despite a strong away performance this season, the team has struggled to capitalize on home advantage. The recurring theme of former RCB players, like Chahal, playing crucial roles against them adds to the narrative of their home difficulties.
Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood emphasized the need for the team to adapt and learn from these experiences to improve future performances.
Looking Ahead
RCB will have an opportunity to redeem themselves in the upcoming rematch against PBKS on Sunday, followed by a fixture against Rajasthan Royals next Thursday. Addressing their home performance issues will be crucial as the tournament progresses.
