Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally broke their Wankhede jinx, defeating Mumbai Indians (MI) by 12 runs in an electrifying contest during IPL 2025.
A stellar all-round performance by RCB saw them post an imposing total of 221/5 and fend off MI’s fierce chase to claim a statement victory.
Virat Kohli was the star of the night, registering a classy 67 off 42 balls, and became the first Indian cricketer to cross 13,000 T20 runs. RCB’s batting was further bolstered by Rajat Patidar’s 64 off 32 deliveries and Jitesh Sharma’s fireworks in the death overs with a quick-fire 40 off 19. Despite conceding 57 runs in four overs, MI’s Trent Boult managed to take two key wickets.
In response, MI’s top order struggled to find their rhythm, but a spirited 89-run partnership between Tilak Varma (56 off 29) and Hardik Pandya (42 off 15) brought them back into contention. Both players displayed incredible power-hitting, briefly igniting hopes of a successful chase. However, the RCB bowling unit held its composure under pressure. Krunal Pandya claimed four wickets in a game-changing spell, while Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal provided key breakthroughs, including the dismissals of Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav.
Despite MI’s valiant effort, they fell short, finishing at 209/9. This victory marked a turning point for RCB as they ended their Wankhede losing streak and gained a much-needed boost in confidence as the tournament progressed.
With this win, RCB strengthens its position in the IPL 2025 points table, sending a clear message to other teams about their intentions this season. Fans will surely remember this clash as one of the most thrilling encounters of the tournament!
