RCB Advances to IPL Final with Dominant Win Over PBKS

RCB's Path to the IPL Final

Mullanpur (Punjab) [India], May 29: After a convincing victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier One, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar praised the exceptional performance of his bowling squad, particularly highlighting spinner Suyash Sharma's contributions, even if it meant allowing some runs.

RCB secured their spot in the IPL final for the fourth time, defeating PBKS by eight wickets in a one-sided match held in Mullanpur on Thursday.

During the post-match presentation, Patidar remarked, “We had a clear strategy regarding our bowling. The fast bowlers effectively utilized the pitch. Suyash's performance was commendable; he maintained excellent lines and lengths. As a captain, I have confidence in his bowling. He should focus on targeting the stumps, which is his strength. His wrong 'un is tough for batters to decipher. I aim to provide him with straightforward guidance without causing confusion. I’m fine with him giving away a few runs in the process.”

Commenting on opener Phil Salt's batting, he added, “Phil has been impressive in most matches, providing solid starts. I’m a huge admirer of his style; it’s a pleasure to watch him from the dugout.”

Patidar expressed gratitude towards fans across India, stating, “I always appreciate RCB supporters, not just in Chinnaswamy but wherever we play; it feels like our home ground. We love you all, so please continue to support us. One more game, and let’s celebrate together.”

After RCB chose to bowl first, PBKS struggled, finding themselves at 48/4 during the powerplay, with Bhuvneshwar, Hazlewood, and Yash performing exceptionally. Marcus Stoinis (26 runs off 17 balls, including two fours and two sixes) and Azmatullah Omarzai (18 runs off 12 balls, with a four and a six) managed to lift PBKS to a total of 101 in 14.1 overs.

Suyash Sharma (3/17) and Josh Hazlewood (3/21) were the standout bowlers for RCB, while Yash Dayal contributed with 2/26 in four overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Romario Shepherd each took one wicket.

In their chase, RCB lost Virat Kohli (12) and Mayank Agarwal (19), but Phil Salt (56* off 27 balls, with six fours and three sixes) and skipper Rajat Patidar (15*) guided RCB to victory in just 10 overs, finishing with eight wickets in hand.

Kyle Jamieson and Musheer Khan each claimed a wicket for PBKS.

Suyash was awarded the 'Player of the Match' title.

With this win, RCB advances to the finals, while PBKS will have another opportunity to compete for the title against the winner of the eliminator match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) on June 1 in Ahmedabad.