Royal Challengers Bengaluru Thrash Punjab Kings to Reach IPL 2025 Final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) advanced to the Indian Premier League final for the first time since 2016 with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS), who were bowled out for a low total of 101. The match was highlighted by the return of Australian paceman Josh Hazlewood, who took 3 wickets for 21 runs, dismantling Punjab's top order early and setting the tone for RCB's comprehensive win. Opener Phil Salt played a crucial unbeaten 56 off 27 balls, powering RCB to chase down the target in just 10 overs, marking the biggest-ever IPL playoff defeat in terms of balls remaining. Punjab Kings, making their first playoff appearance in 11 years, will have another chance to reach the final by facing the winner of the eliminator between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians. The RCB captaincy under Rajat Patidar and the strong bowling performances from Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and leg-spinner Suyash Sharma complemented Hazlewood's impact, contributing to the team's commanding victory. RCB will now await their final opponent while PBKS regroup for their next qualifying match.