Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) spinner Suyash Sharma delivered a stunning performance in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, claiming 3/17 and steering his side into their first IPL final since 2016. His lethal googlies and precise stump-targeting dismantled the Punjab Kings (PBKS) middle order, helping RCB clinch a dominant 8-wicket win at Mullanpur on Thursday.
Suyash, only 21, was named Player of the Match for his magical spell that knocked over Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, and Musheer Khan, exposing PBKS’s vulnerability to quality spin under pressure.
“My coaches gave me just one role—hit the stumps, whether I bowl legbreak, googly, flipper, or any other variation,” Suyash said at the post-match presentation.
“Googly is my stock ball, and I got a bit of help from the wicket as well.”
The modest spinner has quickly become one of the X-factors in RCB’s bowling arsenal, known for his unreadable wrong’uns and mental composure. Despite the hype around his performance, he made it clear that the real celebration will wait.
“Not quite now (on celebrating tonight). I will celebrate on 3rd (June) and very hard as well,” he grinned, referring to the upcoming IPL final in Ahmedabad.
RCB, asked to bowl first, ripped through the PBKS batting lineup. Punjab’s ultra-aggressive approach backfired, resulting in their dismissal for a paltry 101 in 14.1 overs. Fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood (3/21) and Yash Dayal (2/26) backed up Suyash’s brilliance, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Romario Shepherd chipped in with a wicket each.
In reply, RCB chased down the target in just 10 overs. While Virat Kohli (12) and Mayank Agarwal (19) fell early, Phil Salt once again showed why he is a force in chases, smashing an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls to seal the win with eight wickets in hand.
With this win, RCB enters their fourth IPL final, breaking a 9-year drought. Their title clash is set for June 3 in Ahmedabad.
Meanwhile, PBKS still have a chance to redeem themselves. They will face the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) on June 1.
Key Highlights:
- Suyash Sharma: 3/17 in 3 overs, Player of the Match
- Phil Salt: 54* off 27 balls, unbeaten knock in chase
- RCB: Qualified for their first final since 2016
- PBKS: Bowled out for 101 in 14.1 overs
- Final: June 3 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad