IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings, Match 34 - Who Said What?

Punjab-Kings. (Photo source: X/IPL)

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) suffered their third consecutive defeat at home, falling short against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a rain-affected encounter at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Due to weather interruptions, the match was reduced to 14 overs per side.

PBKS skipper won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that proved successful for the team. From the outset, RCB batters struggled to find momentum as the PBKS bowlers maintained tight lines and disciplined lengths. The entire bowling unit contributed effectively, restricting RCB to just 95 runs in their allotted 14 overs.

In response, the PBKS batters chased down the target comfortably, despite RCB bowlers showing some resistance with good-length deliveries. With this win, PBKS registered their fifth victory of the 2025 IPL season and climbed to second place on the points table.

Meanwhile, continue their search for form after losing three games in a row at home. They will be looking to regroup and make a strong comeback in their upcoming fixtures.

Talking Points 1. RCB batters' did not play sensibly

RCB put in to bat first in a rain-affected game, the batters struggled to find rhythm from the outset. Instead of timing the ball, they opted to go hard at everything, failing to make use of the bowlers’ pace. Their aggressive approach lacked finesse, leading to quick dismissals. Tim David was the only bright spot in the innings, scoring a resilient 50 off 26 balls, standing tall amidst the collapse.

2. PBKS bowlers' dominated RCB completely

The PBKS bowlers dominated the RCB batting lineup right from the start. With the match reduced to 14 overs per side, each bowler was allowed a maximum of three overs, and PBKS made the most of it. Arshdeep Singh (2/23), Marco Jansen (2/10), and Yuzvendra Chahal (2/11) all bowled their full quota, delivering crucial breakthroughs at regular intervals. Harpreet Brar also chipped in with two wickets, dismissing the lower-order batters.

3. Fighting spells from RCB pacers

With just 96 runs to defend, RCB had limited options to contain the PBKS chase. They turned to their experienced pacers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who gave their all to apply pressure to Punjab batters. Hazlewood was particularly impressive, conceding just 14 runs in his three-over spell and claiming three crucial wickets. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also bowled tight lines, picking up two wickets. However, Nehal Wadhera’s aggressive 33 off 19 balls sealed the game for PBKS, guiding them comfortably to victory.

Who said what? Rajat Patidar, RCB (Losing Captain)

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. We've had to make that change due to conditions (on leaving out Paddikal). The wicket wasn't that bad, it was under covers for a long time, it helped their bowlers, credit goes to them. No matter how the wicket plays, we need to bat well and get a winning total. 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.

Shreyas Iyer, PBKS (Winning Captain)

Variety is the spice of life. We are able to experience all kinds of game. There was no thinking. We were making instinctive moves, Marco was able to etract the bounce. The rest of the bowlers helped him. To be honest, I didn't know it would play. The bowlers did adapt really well. I didn't see a single six hit down the ground off a pacer. Nehal was brilliant in his approach today. Personally I had a chat with Chahal. He has got the capability of bouncing back. Probably he is the best bowler in the IPL so far. Depends on the wicket.

Tim David, Player of the Match

It didn't feel so easy. I don't know what to say. I think definitely boys batting up communicated it to me. The practice pitches have played similar. Our coaching staff and management have built the squad for a reason. If I get an opportunity to bat up, I will look to contribute for my team. At times when you are trying too hard, it doesn't come off. Tonight was difficult. You had to manage risks a little bit. Would want to having a drink after the team wins. We have been faced with different conditions in each game at home. We haven't played well at home. We need to find a template. We will have to regroup quickly as we will play Punjab.