Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Rajat Patidar admitted that the team’s batting let them down in their five-wicket loss to Punjab Kings (PBKS) during a rain-shortened IPL 2025 match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
RCB managed only 95/9 in 14 overs, despite a fighting 50 off 25 balls from Tim David*. The top and middle order crumbled under pressure, with seven wickets falling for just 42 runs. PBKS chased the target comfortably in 12.1 overs, with 11 balls to spare.
Also SEE : Nehal Wadhera Shines As Punjab Kings Beat RCB In Rain-Shortened Clash
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Patidar pointed out the lack of partnerships and poor shot selection as key factors in the defeat.
“Initially, it was sticking and two-paced, but we could have done far better as a batting unit. Partnerships are important; we have lost wickets in quick intervals, and that’s a big lesson for us.”
On the decision to leave out Devdutt Paddikal, Patidar clarified:
“We had to make that change due to certain conditions. The wicket wasn’t that bad, it was under covers for a long time, it helped their bowlers. Credit goes to them.”
Despite the tough outing, he praised his bowling attack and encouraged his team to regroup.
“The bowling unit is doing pretty well; that’s a big positive. The batters have played with intent; that’s something pleasing. We can correct some of our mistakes in the batting unit.”
Josh Hazlewood was the standout bowler for RCB, delivering an impressive spell of 3/14 and momentarily keeping hopes alive.
However, the defeat marks RCB’s third straight loss at home, further denting their campaign. They will look to bounce back quickly as they face Punjab Kings again on Sunday, April 20, in Mullanpur.