RCB Defeat to SRH in the IPL 65th match in league by 42 runs, Now PBKS Have a chance to qualify by finishing 1st or 2nd.
RCB Defeat : In the 65th match of the IPL 2025 league stage, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 42 runs in Lucknow. This result has impacted the playoff scenarios, particularly for Punjab Kings (PBKS) and their chances of finishing in the top two positions for direct qualification to Qualifier 1.
Match Summary (RCB vs SRH, 65th Match, May 23, 2025):
SRH’s Performance: SRH posted a strong total, driven by contributions from their top order, including Aniket Verma’s quick 26 off 9 balls (with three sixes) and a solid batting effort led by Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Their aggressive batting set a challenging target, with Krunal Pandya taking key wickets for RCB but unable to restrict SRH’s momentum.
RCB’s Performance: RCB struggled in their chase, falling short by 42 runs. Despite efforts from their bowlers like Yash Dayal and Lungi Ngidi, SRH’s batting prowess and RCB’s inability to build partnerships led to the defeat. RCB’s batting collapse was evident, with key players like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar unable to convert starts into substantial scores.
Impact on RCB’s Standings: Before the match, RCB were in a strong position with 17 points from 12 games and a net run rate (NRR) of +0.482. They needed just one more win to secure a playoff spot, with a chance to finish in the top two.
The 42-run loss to SRH has dented RCB’s NRR and their chances of a top-two finish. With one remaining league match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), RCB must win to ensure a playoff spot. A top-two finish now depends on other results, particularly PBKS’s performance, as RCB’s NRR may no longer be superior if PBKS win their remaining games.
Punjab Kings’ Chances for 1st or 2nd Position: Current Standings: PBKS are in a strong position with 17 points from 12 games, placing them in the top three alongside Gujarat Titans (18 points) and RCB (17 points). Their NRR is +0.389, slightly lower than RCB’s before the SRH match but potentially competitive depending on the margin of their remaining wins.
Remaining Matches:
PBKS have two league matches left: Against Delhi Capitals (DC) on May 24, 2025 (66th match).
Against Mumbai Indians (MI) or another opponent, depending on the schedule.
IPL 2025 PBKS Won By 5 Wickets (11 Balls Left) Against RCB
Qualification Scenarios:
To Finish 1st or 2nd: PBKS need to win both remaining matches to reach 21 points, which would likely secure a top-two spot, as only three teams can theoretically reach 20 or more points. A top-two finish guarantees a spot in Qualifier 1, offering two chances to reach the final.
If PBKS win one of their two remaining matches, they will have 19 points. This could still secure a top-two spot if RCB lose their final match (staying on 17 points) and PBKS’s NRR remains competitive.
If PBKS lose one game, they would need a significant margin of victory (e.g., 60+ runs if batting first or chasing 150 runs in under 13 overs) to surpass RCB’s NRR for a top-two spot.
If PBKS lose both remaining matches, they stay on 17 points, and their top-two chances diminish unless other results (e.g., DC and MI losing) keep them in contention via NRR.
Key Factors:
NRR Advantage: PBKS’s NRR (+0.389) is up to RCB’s, and a big win against DC or MI could boost it significantly, enhancing their chances of overtaking RCB or Gujarat Titans for a top-two spot.
PBKS have a strong chance to finish in the top two and qualify for Qualifier 1 if they win both their remaining matches, reaching 21 points. A single win could still secure a top-two spot if RCB lose their final match or if PBKS significantly improve their NRR.
The key will be their performance against DC and MI, coupled with maintaining or boosting their NRR through big wins. RCB’s defeat to SRH has opened the door for PBKS, but their qualification hinges on capitalizing on their remaining games and favorable results elsewhere.