IPL 2025 Playoff: How RCB Can Still Secure A Qualifier 1 Berth
Royal Challengers Bangalore suffered a 42-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 65th match of IPL 2025 on Friday, a result that has reshaped the race for the top two spots on the points table.
With this loss, RCB dropped to third place, while Punjab Kings - without even playing - moved up to second. Although Hyderabad is already out of playoff contention, they played spoilsport by dealing a blow to RCB's chances of a Qualifier 1 berth.
Top two teams in points table at the end of league stage gets to play Qualifier 1. The winning team makes it to finals while the losing side gets another chance to qualify for final by playing the Eliminator.
Equation at the top now tighter than ever
Gujarat Titans remain at the summit with 18 points, followed by Punjab Kings and RCB, both locked at 17 points.
However, Punjab has edged ahead due to a better net run rate, leaving RCB in a must-win situation. RCB's final league match is scheduled against Lucknow Super Giants on May 27, and a win there would take them to 19 points, keeping their hopes of finishing in the top two alive.
For RCB to reclaim a top-two spot, they must not only win their final match but also hope for favorable results elsewhere. If Gujarat Titans lose their last match, RCB could overtake them.
Alternatively, if Punjab Kings lose both their upcoming matches - against Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians - RCB would have a clear path back into the top two. The permutations are many, but the pressure is now firmly on the Bengaluru side.
SRH humbles RCB
Chasing 232 for the win, RCB failed to maintain momentum against Hyderabad. Phil Salt scored a brisk 62 off 32 balls, while Virat Kohli contributed 43 off 25. However, after their dismissals, the middle order collapsed, and the team was eventually bowled out for 189 in 19.5 overs.
Sunrisers Hyderabad, led by captain Pat Cummins, were dominant with both bat and ball. Ishan Kishan played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 94 off 48 balls, propelling SRH to a massive 231/6 in 20 overs. With the ball, Cummins was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 3/28 in 4 overs, while Ishan Malinga supported well with 2 wickets for 37 runs.
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