Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have secured the second spot in the IPL 2025 points table, setting up a Qualifier 1 clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on May 29, 2025, in Chandigarh. RCB finished with 19 points, the same as PBKS, but Punjab edged ahead due to a better net run rate. This marks RCB’s first top-two finish in nine years, giving them a direct chance to reach the final if they win Qualifier 1. However, even if they lose, they will get a second opportunity in Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator match between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI)2.
RCB’s journey to the playoffs was thrilling, with stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma leading from the front in their final league match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). His unbeaten 85 off 33 balls helped RCB chase down 228 runs, securing their top-two finish. With Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Glenn Maxwell in form, RCB will be looking to capitalize on their momentum against Punjab Kings, who have been dominant throughout the season. PBKS, led by Shikhar Dhawan, will be a tough opponent, having finished at the top of the table for the first time since 20143.
The IPL 2025 playoffs promise intense battles, with RCB aiming to break their title drought and finally lift the coveted IPL trophy. If they win Qualifier 1, they will advance directly to the final on June 3, 2025, in Ahmedabad. If they lose, they will play Qualifier 2 on June 1, also in Ahmedabad, against the winner of the Eliminator. With their strong batting lineup and Hazlewood’s return, RCB fans are hopeful that this could be the year their team finally clinches the championship.