Private Blog Network – Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their spot in the IPL final with an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings at New Chandigarh. Punjab Kings struggled with the bat and were bowled out for a mere 101 runs in 14.1 overs. RCB chased the target comfortably in just 10 overs, losing only two wickets. Phil Salt led the chase with a blazing 56 not out from 27 balls. This win marks RCB’s first IPL final appearance since 2016 and sets them up to compete for their maiden IPL title.
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Punjab Kings’ Batting Collapse Limits Their Chances
Punjab Kings started their innings poorly after losing the toss and being asked to bat first. They quickly found themselves in trouble at 38 for 4 inside the powerplay overs. The bowling attack of RCB, led by spinner Suyash Sharma and seamer Josh Hazlewood, was relentless. Both bowlers took three wickets apiece, dismantling the Kings’ batting lineup. Marcus Stoinis was the top scorer with 26 runs, while opener Prabhsimran Singh and tail-ender Azmatullah contributed 18 runs each. Despite their strong regular-season performance, Kings failed to build partnerships under pressure.
Phil Salt’s Explosive Knock Guides RCB to Victory
Phil Salt’s aggressive batting set the tone for RCB’s chase. The English opener smashed six fours and three sixes, scoring a quick 50 off just 23 balls, his fastest half-century in the IPL. Salt’s unbeaten 56 runs anchored the innings and kept the required run rate low. His composure allowed RCB to control the game from the start. Rajat Patidar finished the match in style by hitting a six off the final ball of the 10th over, sealing the biggest win by balls remaining in IPL play-off history.
RCB’s Strong Bowling and Fielding Effort
RCB’s bowling unit performed with precision to restrict Punjab Kings to a low total. Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma’s combined six wickets were crucial in breaking key partnerships. The disciplined bowling limited the Kings’ batsmen from scoring freely. Fielding support was equally impressive, with catches and ground fielding saving valuable runs. The early breakthroughs put immense pressure on the Kings’ lineup, which never recovered. This all-around team performance highlights RCB’s balance and determination heading into the final.
What Lies Ahead for RCB and Punjab Kings
With this win, RCB advances directly to the IPL final scheduled for Tuesday. They will compete for their first-ever IPL championship, ending a seven-year wait since their last final appearance. Punjab Kings, who finished top of the regular season table, now face a tougher route. They must win the qualifier match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians to reach the final. Both teams showed great potential this season, and the upcoming matches promise thrilling contests as the IPL title race nears its climax.