In a high-voltage encounter that had serious implications for the playoff rankings, Sunrisers Hyderabad delivered a masterclass performance to overpower Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 42 runs. Batting first in Lucknow, SRH posted a formidable total of 232, thanks to a scintillating knock from Ishan Kishan. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter remained unbeaten on 94 off just 48 balls, blending power and placement to guide SRH to one of the highest totals of the season.
Kishan’s assault left the RCB bowlers struggling for answers, as he found gaps with precision and cleared the ropes with confidence. Support from the middle order ensured SRH ended on a high note, setting a steep mountain for the chasing side.
RCB’s Top-Two Hopes Take a Major Hit
Chasing 232 was always going to demand a fearless approach and consistent partnerships. RCB responded with intent through Phil Salt, who smashed a rapid 62 off 32 balls, and Virat Kohli, who played a fluent hand of 43 off 25 deliveries. Jitesh Sharma added 24 from 15 balls, but the rest of the batting order failed to click under pressure.
The collapse came at a critical juncture. Despite their promising start, RCB’s batting faltered under the scoreboard pressure and was eventually bundled out for 189. The defeat, their first on the road this season, came at the worst possible time.
Playoff Table Shake-Up After Crucial Loss
This result has shaken up the points table. RCB, who had a shot at finishing inside the top two, have now slipped to third with 17 points, behind Gujarat Titans (18) and Punjab Kings (17) due to an inferior Net Run Rate (NRR). The heavy margin of defeat dealt a blow to their NRR, adding further complications to their playoff ambitions.
What Lies Ahead
With the playoffs drawing near, every run and every over is now critical. RCB will need not only to win their remaining fixtures but do so with significant margins if they hope to reclaim a top-two finish. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad have reignited their campaign at a pivotal moment, with Kishan’s return to form being a major boost.
The road to the IPL 2025 final just got tighter, and with every match playing the role of a virtual knockout, fans can expect more drama and surprises in the days ahead.
