RCB to IPL 2025 Final with Josh Hazlewood's Devastating Spell Against PBKS
In a commanding performance during Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets, securing their place in the final for the first time in nine years. The match, held at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, saw RCB's bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood, dominate the proceedings.
Hazlewood, making a timely return to the playing XI, delivered an impressive spell, taking 3 wickets for 21 runs. His efforts, combined with Suyash Sharma's 3 for 17, restricted PBKS to a mere 101 runs in 14.1 overs—the second-lowest total in IPL playoff history. Notable PBKS batsmen, including Josh Inglis (4), Shreyas Iyer (2), and Musheer Khan (0), failed to make significant contributions, with only Marcus Stoinis offering resistance with a 26-run cameo.
RCB chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 102 for 2 in just 10 overs. Opener Phil Salt led the charge with an unbeaten 56, while captain Rajat Patidar sealed the victory with a six.
Post-match, Hazlewood emphasized the importance of match practice ahead of the World Test Championship final, stating, "There's no better place than out in the middle... to get that intensity right up.
With this victory, RCB advances to their fourth IPL final, having previously reached the finals in 2009, 2011, and 2016. They await the winner of Qualifier 2, where PBKS will have another opportunity to reach the final.