The Punjab Kings (PBKS) showcased composure under pressure as they defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 5 wickets in Match 34 of IPL 2025 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
RCB struggled to get going with the bat, posting a modest 95/9 in 14 overs. In response, PBKS chased down the target efficiently, reaching 98/5 in 12.1 overs, with Marcus Stoinis finishing the game in style with a towering six over long-on.
.@PunjabKingsIPL‘s red is shining bright in Bengaluru ❤️
They continue their winning streak with an all-round show over #RCB 👏
Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ #TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS pic.twitter.com/NOASW2XRMD
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2025
Batting first, RCB found themselves in trouble early. Their powerplay woes saw them post just 26/3 in four overs, with Punjab’s bowlers striking at crucial junctures. The middle phase was no better, as RCB managed only 21/4 between overs 5-10, making runs hard to come by. Despite a late acceleration in the death overs (48 runs in 11-14), it wasn’t enough to build a defendable total.
PBKS began their chase with intent, scoring 33/2 in the powerplay and maintaining the pressure. Nehal Wadhera’s aggressive stroke play was crucial, and despite losing wickets along the way, Punjab maintained composure.
𝘽𝙊𝙊𝙈 💥
Nehal Wadhera is in a hurry to finish it for #PBKS 🏃
Updates ▶ https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ #TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS | @PunjabKingsIPL pic.twitter.com/upMlSvOJi9
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2025
Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood posed a challenge with key breakthroughs, but Marcus Stoinis’ explosive hitting easily ensured Punjab’s victory.
#RCB are pumped and HOW 🤩
Sharp catch by Jitesh Sharma and #PBKS are 4️⃣ down 👌
High quality over from Josh Hazlewood 🫡
Updates ▶ https://t.co/7fIn60rqKZ #TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS | @RCBTweets pic.twitter.com/O8F4deioAZ
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 18, 2025
With this win, Punjab Kings strengthen their IPL 2025 campaign and climb the points table, while RCB needs a turnaround to keep their playoff hopes alive.