Following Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s emphatic 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, skipper Rajat Patidar praised his side’s disciplined bowling performance, particularly lauding the contributions of pacers and spinner Suyash Sharma.
The win at Mullanpur on Thursday sealed RCB’s place in their fourth IPL final and brought them one step closer to a maiden IPL title.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Patidar highlighted the clarity and execution shown by his bowlers.
“I think we were clear about our plans and how we have to bowl. I think the fast bowlers used the surface really well. The way Suyash chipped in and the way he bowled his lines and lengths were really good. As a captain, I am clear about his bowling. He has to target the stumps, that is his strength. His wrong ‘un is difficult for the batters to read. I always want to give him clear ideas, I do not want to confuse him. I am okay if he concedes a few runs (in the process.),” said Patidar.
Suyash Sharma was instrumental in dismantling PBKS’ middle-order, finishing with figures of 3/17. He was later awarded the ‘Player of the Match’.
On the batting front, Patidar lauded opener Phil Salt, who continued his red-hot form with an unbeaten 56 off 27 balls to guide RCB home comfortably.
“The way he (Salt) is batting in most of the matches. The way he is giving starts, I am a big fan of him. It’s a treat to watch him from the dugout,” he added.
Patidar also extended his heartfelt thanks to the RCB fanbase, which has consistently turned up in large numbers across venues.
“I always thank RCB fans, not only in Chinnaswamy, but wherever we go we feel it’s our home ground. We love you, so keep supporting us. One more game and let’s celebrate together,” he said.
RCB’s dominant performance began with the ball, reducing PBKS to 48/4 in the powerplay. Josh Hazlewood (3/21), Yash Dayal (2/26), and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were relentless, while Romario Shepherd chipped in with a wicket. Marcus Stoinis (26) and Azmatullah Omarzai (18) were the only notable scorers for PBKS, who were bundled out for 101 in 14.1 overs.
In reply, RCB chased down the target in just 10 overs, losing only Virat Kohli (12) and Mayank Agarwal (19). Salt and Patidar (15*) wrapped up the chase in style.
Despite the defeat, Punjab Kings are not out of the title race. They will play the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans on June 1 in Ahmedabad for another shot at reaching the final.