Royal Challengers Bangalore bounced back on Easter Sunday with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium. After restricting PBKS to 157/6, RCB chased down the target easily with Virat Kohli scoring an unbeaten 73 and Devdutt Padikkal contributing 61.
The partnership between Kohli and Padikkal of 103 runs for the second wicket sealed the win for RCB. Jithesh Sharma hit a six to secure RCB’s fifth consecutive away win in IPL 2025. Arshdeep Singh provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Phil Salt, but Padikkal’s aggressive approach put PBKS under pressure. The spinners Harpreet Brar and Yuzvendra Chahal failed to make an impact as Kohli and Padikkal attacked them.
PBKS started well but lost momentum in the middle overs due to tight bowling from Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma. Prabhsimran Singh’s quick start was nullified by Krunal’s wicket, and PBKS struggled to build partnerships. A late effort from Shanshak Singh and Marco Jansen helped PBKS reach a modest total.
RCB’s dominant performance showcased their strong form in the tournament, while PBKS will need to regroup and improve in the upcoming matches. The win was a statement of intent from RCB as they continue their quest for the IPL title.
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