Punjab Kings Outplay RCB in Rain-Shortened IPL Thriller

In a rain-affected IPL 2025 clash on April 18, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) clinched a commanding five-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The match, reduced to 14 overs per side due to weather interruptions, exposed RCB’s ongoing struggles, particularly at home.

Punjab Kings Outplay RCB in Rain-Shortened IPL Thriller

RCB’s Top Order Crumbles Under Pressure

Batting first, RCB found themselves in deep trouble early on. Their top and middle-order batsmen failed to withstand the disciplined Punjab bowling attack, collapsing to 42 for 7. Despite the chaos, Tim David stood tall with a crucial unbeaten half-century, scoring 50 runs to help RCB limp to a total of 95 for 9 in their allotted 14 overs. The rest of the batting unit failed to support him, with wickets falling at regular intervals and no substantial partnerships forming.

Punjab Kings Keep Calm During the Chase

Chasing a modest target of 96, PBKS began cautiously but lost a few quick wickets, which briefly gave RCB some hope. However, Nehal Wadhera anchored the innings brilliantly with a steady knock of 33 not out. His composure at the crease ensured that Punjab reached the target with 11 balls to spare, securing a comfortable win despite some hiccups along the way.

Former RCB Stars Haunt Their Old Team

Interestingly, RCB’s recent home matches have seen them outplayed by familiar faces. In previous games, ex-RCB players like Mohammed Siraj and KL Rahul made key contributions for their current teams. In this match, it was Yuzvendra Chahal, once a crowd favorite at Chinnaswamy, who turned up with a tight spell that further derailed RCB’s innings.

Bengaluru’s Home Struggles Continue

This marks RCB’s third straight loss at their home ground, a trend that has been worrying for both players and fans. With expectations high from the home crowd, the team’s inability to capitalize on familiar conditions has been disappointing. The bowlers showed some fight, but the batting collapse left them with too little to defend.

What’s Next for RCB?

RCB will have a chance to bounce back in their upcoming rematch against PBKS, scheduled just a few days away. With their campaign under pressure, they’ll need to regroup quickly, fix their batting woes, and deliver a stronger performance—especially at home—to stay in the playoff race.