Royal Challengers Bengaluru https://www.cricketwinner.com Royal Challengers Bengaluru Thu, 01 May 2025 03:38:29 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[IPL 2025 Qualification Scenarios: Can your team still make it to 16 Points?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-qualification-scenarios-can-your-team-still-make-it-to-16-points/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-qualification-scenarios-can-your-team-still-make-it-to-16-points/ Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:15:35 GMT

IPL 2025 has reached its halfway mark; the 43rd match is on the card. This season, so far, has surprised cricket fans in multiple ways: multiple all-time records have been shattered, evenings are packed with neck-to-neck rivalries, and multiple teams are in the race to confirm a playoff ticket. Only four teams will be booked for the next round, and the rest of the teams will have to wait for a brand-new season. Teams like Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are looking good enough to qualify for the next round. Contradictory, teams like Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have so far experienced a very bumpy road.

Now, let's derive which team can qualify for the round of four and how (16— probable cut-off points)— 

Gujarat Titans (GT): Shubman Gill-led Gujarat Titans is the frontrunner to enter into the upcoming stage. Lying in the number 3 spot with 12 points in 9 matches.

Delhi Capitals (DC): Axar Patel-led so far performed extremely well, got 12 points in 10 matches, and a spot in the playoffs seems only some inches away for them.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): This time, under Rajat Patidar's leadership, RCB is looking more composed than before. Currently at the 1st spot, 14 points in 10 matches.

Read More: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Nitish Rana takes funny catch to dismiss Devdutt Padikkal in RCB vs RR clash

Mumbai Indians (MI): with all the experience gained from previous seasons, the way Mumbai Indians bounced back probably no one expected. Back-to-back wins have made them another contender for the playoffs. Currently at 2nd spot with 14 points in 10 matches. 

Punjab Kings (PBKS): Despite multiple promising moments, Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, are struggling to maintain their momentum, and for that, they are now 5th in the points table; 11 points in 9 matches. 

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): Despite a solid squad on pen and paper, Rishabh Pant's Lucknow Super Giants performance on the field has not yet justified their value. 10 points in 10 matches—that's all they have right now.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): The champion of IPL 2024 have 9 points in 10 matches. The defending champion is very near to exiting, but a glimmer of hope is still left.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Probably the most hyped team after the mega auction, now struck deep in the points table, currently at number 9 with 6 points in 9 matches. 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK): A tumultuous season for the team; probably they need to find a good combination for next season. Now CSK, at 10th place in the ten-team league after playing 9 matches, got 4 points. 

Rajasthan Royals (RR): With a bunch of exciting talents on board, RR's dream to qualify for the next round is probably all gone. Royals at number 8, has only 6 points in 10 matches. 

IPL 2025 Playoffs Chances:

RCB - 90.6%

MI- 63.7%

GT- 76.9%

DC- 63.6%

PBKS - 61.4%

LSG - 27.7%

KKR - 11.7%

RR- 0.5%

SRH - 3.7%

CSK - 0.2%

]]>
<![CDATA[WATCH: Virat Kohli and KL Rahul get involved in verbal altercation during DC vs RCB clash]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-virat-kohli-and-kl-rahul-get-involved-in-verbal-altercation-during-dc-vs-rcb-clash/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-virat-kohli-and-kl-rahul-get-involved-in-verbal-altercation-during-dc-vs-rcb-clash/ Sun, 27 Apr 2025 17:21:30 GMT

The high-voltage match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in IPL 2025 saw tempers flare when RCB’s former skipper Virat Kohli and DC wicket keeper KL Rahul engaged in a heated verbal exchange during the run chase. Chasing a stiff target off 163 after Delhi posted 162/8, RCB stumbled early, struggling to find momentum. Kohli, who was tasked with stabilizing the innings, looked composed until a tense moment erupted between him and Rahul. Though the exact reason behind the exchange wasn’t clear, the intensity between two of India cricket’s most competitive figures was briefly visible.

The confrontation unfolded during the middle overs of RCB’s innings. The legendary India batter seemed to initiate the interaction, saying something to Rahul, who responded with a helpless gesture. However, both players are renowned for their fiery spirits, quickly moved past the incident and refocused on the game. Kohli continued to guide RCB’s innings, trying to repair the shaky start. Despite the tension, the game moved on without further conflict, and the players maintained professionalism as the match progressed.

See Also: WATCH: Ravi Bishnoi teases Jasprit Bumrah after hitting him for six in MI vs LSG match

Tension had been brewing even before the exchange. The occasion occurred just before over 6.5, Rahul had a brief discussion with bowler Vipraj Nigam after DC players were warned by umpires for repositioning fielders improperly at the time of a free-hit delivery. The delay between deliveries seemed to frustrate Kohli, who later raised concerns with the umpires. The actual incident between Kohli and Rahul occurred after 7.4 overs when Delhi reviewed an LBW decision against Krunal Pandya. Combined delays and constant interruptions triggered Kohli’s displeasure during this high-pressure encounter.

Watch the video here;

RCB cruise to top spot on points table

In Match 46 of IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Delhi Capitals by six wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Batting first, Delhi Capitals posted 162/8 in 20 overs, with Karun Nair (44 off 44) and Rahul (41 off 39) being the top scorers. Bhuvneshwar Kumar led RCB’s bowling attack with 3/33, while Hazlewood picked up two wickets. Despite a few promising partnerships, Delhi struggled to accelerate throughout their innings and lost momentum towards the death overs.

Chasing 163, RCB’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing three wickets for just 26 runs. However, Virat Kohli anchored the chase with a composed 51 off 47 balls, and Krunal Pandya played a match-winning knock of 73* off 47 deliveries. Tim David's quickfire 19* ensured RCB crossed the finish line comfortably in 18.3 overs. Axar Patel was the standout bowler for Delhi, claiming two wickets, but DC’s efforts fell short as RCB sealed a crucial win.

]]>
<![CDATA[IPL 2025: Why is Phil Salt not playing against Delhi Capitals in today's match?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-phil-salt-not-playing-against-delhi-capitals-in-today-s-match/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-phil-salt-not-playing-against-delhi-capitals-in-today-s-match/ Sun, 27 Apr 2025 13:54:53 GMT

While the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are strongly performing in the IPL 2025, English opener Phil Salt is one of their key players. However, he is missing RCB's IPL 2025 match against the hosts Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday evening (April 27). Here, we will know the reason for his absence from the game.

Before this 46th match of the IPL 2025, which Arun Jaitley Stadium is hosting, DC and RCB both have 12 points after eight and nine matches, respectively. Currently, the former RCB captain Virat Kohli is their leading run-scorer this season with 392 runs in nine innings with an average of 65.33 and a strike rate of 144.11, including five half-centuries.

See Also: Suryakumar Yadav Creates History against LSG in IPL 2025

IPL 2025: Phil Salt is the 2nd leading run-scorer for RCB

Despite some poor single-digit scores, another RCB opener Phil Salt is the second leading run-scorer for his team this season with 239 runs in nine innings. The English right-handed aggressive batter has an average of 26.55 and a strike rate of 168.30, including two half-centuries. In their match against the hosts Rajasthan Royals, while RCB won by nine wickets after successfully chasing the 174-run target in 17.3 overs after losing only one wicket, Salt won the Player of the Match for his fiery knock of 65 in 33 balls. 

The RCB opening partners, Salt and Virat Kohli, have recorded four 50+ first-wicket partnerships this season, which is an important and powerful stat for a team. So, there is no doubt about the importance of Salt, despite scoring one double-digit score in his last three innings. 

Phil Salt is down with a fever

During the DC vs RCB match in the 46th game of the IPL 2025, after the RCB captain Rajat Patidar chose to field first, he confirmed that Jacob Bethell was replacing Phil Salt. Soon, the RCB skipper clarified the reason for Salt's absence in the game. RCB captain claimed that Salt is down with a fever, so he was unavailable for the match. 

]]>
<![CDATA['Scales are tilted towards...'— former India cricketer predicts which team slightly ahead for DC vs RCB IPL 2025 game]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/scales-are-tilted-towards-former-india-cricketer-predicts-which-team-slightly-ahead-for-dc-vs-rcb-ipl-2025-game/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/scales-are-tilted-towards-former-india-cricketer-predicts-which-team-slightly-ahead-for-dc-vs-rcb-ipl-2025-game/ Sun, 27 Apr 2025 13:37:05 GMT

Clash of Clans—that is how cricket fans are labeling Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, game 46 of IPL 2025. Along with Gujarat Titans, these two teams also are the top favorites to clinch a playoff spot with 12 points: Delhi Capitals currently at number 2 and RCB at the third place of the ladder. Former Indian cricketer and cricket pundit at present, Aakash Chopra said, "This could be the game of the tournament."

Delhi Capitals will get the home ground advantage as the match is set to be held at Arun Jaitley Stadium. But when Virat Kohli is on the pitch, the atmosphere of the gallery can change drastically. Chopra has shown little concern over Delhi Capitals tactical decisions. The Axar Patel-led side has fielded their team with fewer overseas players; the DC XI mostly relies on Indian talent.

Faf du Plessis is with the squad, and Jake Fraser-McGurk is also there, but DC has planned differently; they put Karun Nair as an opener with Abishek Porel. Nair's IPL 2025 debut innings was an absolute banger; his presence in the lineup provides DC an extra edge. Jake Fraser-McGurk's past IPL record is undoubtedly good, but this time he was too far from his best. 

Read More: IPL 2025: 3 key predictions made by AI on DC vs RCB clash today

"I feel DC's batting is working thus far but will get stuck someday for sure. They have been doing a decent job, but I feel something might get stuck. It may be this game, or it might just be my thinking, and it might never happen. The home team has gone towards all made in India, although they finally decided to play Dushmantha Chameera. However, they are still playing with only three overseas—(Tristan) Stubbs, (Mitchell) Starc, and Dushmantha Chameera. I still don't know what the news is about Faf du Plessis. It doesn't seem like they wish to play Jake Fraser-McGurk currently. So what this team will do, I have no idea. Abishek Porel and Karun Nair might only be seen opening," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

In terms of the latest performances, DC and RCB are both on the same level; in the last 5 matches, both of the teams won 3 and lost 2. In game 24, IPL 2025, at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Patel's Delhi Capitals proved better than Rajat Patidar's RCB by 6 wickets.

Chopra slightly optimistic about RCB 

But it seems like Chopra was not bothered by the stats and numbers; he solely believed in how the teams were performing in the field. From his point of view, the commentator has said that RCB may have played better than DC in recent times. 

"In whose favor are the scales tilted? Since they are on the road, I will say the scales are tilted towards RCB. However, this could be the game of the tournament. This game will be enjoyable," Chopra said.

]]>
<![CDATA["I Take Care of Virat Bhaiya" – Swastik Chikara reveals his special bond with Virat Kohli]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/uncategorized/i-take-care-of-virat-bhaiya-swastik-chikara-reveals-his-special-bond-with-virat-kohli/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/uncategorized/i-take-care-of-virat-bhaiya-swastik-chikara-reveals-his-special-bond-with-virat-kohli/ Sat, 26 Apr 2025 09:23:13 GMT

In a recent open moment that made headlines among cricket enthusiasts, the young Indian cricketer spoke about his close relationship with star batsman Virat Kohli. In a lighthearted conversation, fellow team member Yash Dayal playfully called Swastik "Virat Bhaiya's shadow," pointing out his constant presence around the cricketing legend.

ALSO SEE : Top 3 Auction blunders that led to CSK's struggles in IPL 2025

Swastik replied with honesty and humility:

“Kuch nahi, Virat bhaiya ki dekh bhal karta hoon main. Bhaiya ko paani ya kuch bhi zarurat hoti hai to lekar pahuch jata hoon. Main sabhi teammate ke liye karta hoon.”
("I just take care of Virat bhaiya. If he needs water or anything, I bring it to him. I do this for all my teammates.”)

The Kohli Influence

For young players such as Swastik Chikara, to share the dressing room with Virat Kohli is not only a milestone moment in their career - it's also an excellent opportunity to learn. Kohli, who is famous for his hard work, strong concentration, and fitness, is an idol for most young cricketers.

Swastik's little act reflects the great respect that young players have for their elders. It also reflects the great team spirit in Indian cricket, where performance, respect, and friendship go together.

ALSO SEE : Cricketers who played IPL 2008 and are still going strong in 2025 — Last name will shock you!

Fans Respond to Swastik's Statement

Since the clip went viral on the internet, fans on social media appreciated Swastik Chikara for his humility and commitment to team values. Cricket fans admired his attitude, terming it a wonderful example of how young players show respect to legends like Virat Kohli.

This moment has sparked a broader conversation around team bonding in Indian cricket, with most praising how new players are helping maintain the good atmosphere, both on and off the pitch.

]]>
<![CDATA[WATCH: Jitesh Sharma’s game changing review breaks Rajasthan Royals’ hearts in final overs!]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-jitesh-sharma-s-game-changing-review-breaks-rajasthan-royals-hearts-in-final-overs/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-jitesh-sharma-s-game-changing-review-breaks-rajasthan-royals-hearts-in-final-overs/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 19:00:45 GMT

In a competitive IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals, Jitesh Sharma showed that every ball counts. With Rajasthan Royals taking control of the chase, it was Jitesh's presence of mind and alertness that mattered. When Dhruv Jurel seemed settled at the crease, Jitesh's timely intervention turned the match on its head. 

Although the wicket-keeper batter only contributed a brief batting cameo, his biggest impact came at the gate. In the second last over, with RR still in reach, he asked Captain Rajat Patidar to review a dismissal. The appeal did not seem strong after Jurel appeared to miss a wide yorker, but Jitesh was convinced. Upon review, UltraEdge did show a tiny spike off the batter's bottom edge, and Jurel was dismissed at a critical junction.

That wicket proved crucial, as Josh Hazlewood immediately followed up with the wicket of Jofra Archer shortly after. Jurel was handling the RCB bowlers comfortably, and in particular was being aggressive against Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and was RR's last real hope. Sharma's demonstrated alertness made sure momentum turned back RCB, and eventually helped them win a critical match in this IPL 2025 at the Chinnaswamy.

RCB win their first game on home ground

Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated the Rajasthan Royals in an exciting encounter, winning by 11 runs, in match 42 of IPL 2025. RCB posted a huge total of 205/5, powered by Virat Kohli's explosive 70 off 42 and Devdutt Padikkal's quick 50 off 27 balls. Phil Salt and Tim David also chipped in with some runs, and Jitesh Sharma finished the innings off with a flourish, hitting an unbeaten 20 off 10 balls. Rajasthan's bowling was expensive, and beyond the two wickets (2/45) by Sandeep Sharma and 1 wicket (1/30) from Wanindu Hasaranga were unable to control RCB's scoring.

In its chase, the Rajasthan Royals started particularly well with Yashasvi Jaiswal clobbering 49 off 19 balls. However, wickets fell continuously, and RCB was able to slow the chase down. Dhruv Jurel looked like he would take them closer with a 47-run effort, but then Jitesh Sharma pulled off a smart review and took him out at a critical stage in the match — this moment shifted the game into RCB's hands. Josh Hazlewood put in a brilliant death overs performance, taking 4/34 and destroying RR's middle order. Krunal Pandya was also a key bowler for RCB, taking 2 wickets for just 12 runs.

Although RR made a late push, RCB had set the target to be too great, and RR finished the game at 194/9. Jitesh Sharma had great awareness in the match, and Josh Hazlewood had an exceptional end to his spell (and a great end to the game) to help RCB secure its first win at home. With this win, RCB have climbed to the third spot.

]]>
<![CDATA[The Golden Days of IPL: Vodafone ZooZoo old Ads every cricket lover Must Watch]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/the-golden-days-of-ipl-vodafone-zoozoo-old-ads-every-cricket-lover-must-watch/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/the-golden-days-of-ipl-vodafone-zoozoo-old-ads-every-cricket-lover-must-watch/ Sun, 20 Apr 2025 19:43:16 GMT

The golden era of the Indian Premier League (IPL) wasn’t just about iconic matches and unforgettable moments on the field—it also gave us some of the most legendary commercials ever seen on Indian television. Among them, the Vodafone ZooZoo ads became an instant hit, winning hearts with their quirky and humorous storytelling. These white, egg-headed characters were used to creatively showcase Vodafone’s value-added services during IPL, and they quickly became a pop-culture phenomenon, loved by audiences of all ages.

What made the ZooZoo ads truly special was their simplicity and charm. Though they appeared animated, the ZooZoos were real actors in body suits filmed at high speed, creating a unique visual effect. Each ad delivered a humorous twist while promoting services like SMS packs, call tunes, and mobile internet. The clever scripts and silent acting made the ads universally appealing, cutting through language barriers and delivering laughs during match breaks across the IPL seasons.

See Also: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Virat Kohli caught on stump mic mocking Punjab Kings bowler Harpreet Brar

Even years later, these ads hold a nostalgic place in the hearts of cricket fans. Every time an IPL season rolls around, social media is flooded with fans reminiscing about the ZooZoos and how they were an integral part of the IPL experience. The blend of creative marketing and cricket excitement made them a defining feature of early IPL broadcasts. For those who witnessed it live, the ZooZoo era was truly a golden chapter in both Indian advertising and cricket culture.

Watch the video

IPL 2025 journey so far

As IPL 2025 progresses past the halfway mark, the points table is shaping up to be a tightly contested affair at the top. Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants are all locked at 10 points each. However, Gujarat lead the standings due to a superior Net Run Rate (NRR) of +0.984, followed closely by Delhi (+0.589) and RCB (+0.472). Punjab Kings and LSG trail slightly behind in NRR but remain in strong playoff contention. Mumbai Indians, with 8 points and a healthy NRR of +0.483, are still very much in the race.

In the bottom half, Kolkata Knight Riders are struggling but still in with a chance, sitting on 6 points from 7 matches with an NRR of +0.547. Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings occupy the last three spots. Each of them has just 4 points, with CSK having the worst NRR of -1.392. With just a few games left for each team, the tournament is heading towards a thrilling finish. Teams in the lower half will need to string together consistent performances to stay in the hunt, while those at the top aim to consolidate their positions in the playoff race.

]]>
<![CDATA[[WATCH] IPL 2025: Virat Kohli caught on stump mic mocking Punjab Kings bowler Harpreet Brar]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-ipl-2025-virat-kohli-caught-on-stump-mic-mocking-punjab-kings-bowler-harpreet-brar/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-ipl-2025-virat-kohli-caught-on-stump-mic-mocking-punjab-kings-bowler-harpreet-brar/ Sun, 20 Apr 2025 16:10:42 GMT

Virat Kohli, known for his expressive and fiery personality on the cricket field, was once again in the spotlight during the IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings. The RCB star was seen engaging in a lively exchange with PBKS spinner Harpreet Brar. The moment caught attention as the two cricketers shared a candid conversation in Punjabi, adding a local flavour to the intensity of the match and offering fans a glimpse of Kohli’s animated style.

During the brief interaction between overs, Kohli was overheard saying to Brar in Punjabi, “20 saal hogaye meinu. Tere coach nu bhi janda mein. Tera haathe thik hogaya, tej marke stumpa todi jana.” This loosely translates to, “I’ve been around for 20 years. I even know your coach. Your arm’s better now—bowling fast enough to break the stumps.” The comment was cheeky, but typical of Kohli’s on-field banter.

Harpreet Brar, in response, appeared calm and attempted to de-escalate the situation. He was seen explaining that he wasn’t arguing but merely trying to share his perspective. The conversation, although spirited, didn’t turn hostile and was seen as part of the healthy competitive spirit between the teams. Fans on social media appreciated the light-hearted banter, which reflected the passion and energy that Kohli continues to bring to the IPL stage.

Watch the video here;

Typical VK! 😉🗣

How good was he in the #IPLRevengeWeek against Punjab today? 👀😁#IPLonJioStar 👉 #MIvCSK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/GKbUg374lI

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 20, 2025

Kohli led from front in run chase

Talking about the match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the toss and elected to bowl first against Punjab Kings (PBKS). Despite a promising start by the PBKS openers, the middle-order failed to maintain momentum. RCB's bowlers regrouped brilliantly after the powerplay, applying pressure and taking wickets at regular intervals. Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma were particularly effective, and the collective effort saw Punjab restricted to a modest total of 157/6 in their 20 overs at the Mullanpur Cricket Stadium.

In response, RCB suffered an early setback with the dismissal of Phil Salt in the very first over. However, Virat Kohli, showcasing his vintage flair, anchored the innings with composure and class. He stitched crucial partnerships, particularly with Devdutt Padikkal, who also played a brisk and impactful knock. Kohli’s presence at the crease proved vital as he calmly steered the chase, ensuring there were no further hiccups. Eventually, RCB comfortably reached the target in 18.5 overs with seven wickets in hand. The win not only marked a solid team performance but also highlighted Kohli's undying spirit and match-winning temperament.

]]>
<![CDATA[Déjà Vu! Arshdeep Removes Salt for 4th Time in T20s!]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/d-j-vu-arshdeep-removes-salt-for-4th-time-in-t20s/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/d-j-vu-arshdeep-removes-salt-for-4th-time-in-t20s/ Sun, 20 Apr 2025 13:20:02 GMT

Arshdeep Singh once again proved to be a key weapon for Punjab Kings as he removed Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s explosive opener Phil Salt in the very first over of their IPL 2025 clash at Mullanpur Cricket Stadium on Sunday, April 20. Salt, who managed only one run from three balls, fell victim to Arshdeep for the fourth time in their last five T20 encounters. The left-arm seamer struck with a well-directed short delivery that caught Salt off guard as he mistimed a pull shot.

The ball deflected off Salt’s bat while his eyes were set towards midwicket, leading to a comfortable catch behind the stumps by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis. Arshdeep’s early breakthrough handed PBKS a dream start as RCB began their chase of a modest 158-run target. With this dismissal, Arshdeep continued his impressive streak against Salt, highlighting his dominance over the England batter in the shortest format of the game.

Earlier in the day, RCB skipper won the toss and elected to field first. Punjab Kings had a brisk start, thanks to opener Prabhsimran Singh, who hammered 33 off 17 balls. Despite a promising beginning, PBKS couldn’t maintain the momentum as their captain Shreyas Iyer failed to deliver, managing just 6 runs off 10 balls. The innings was later steadied by Shashank Singh and Marco Jansen, who remained unbeaten on 31 and 25 runs respectively, helping their side post 157/6 in 20 overs.

See Also: IPL 2025: Why is Romario Shepherd playing in today's PBKS vs RCB match ?

Bowlers Dominate as PBKS Look to Defend

Among PBKS’s bowling lineup, Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma stood out with their economical and effective spells. Both bowlers picked up two wickets each while conceding only 25 and 26 runs, respectively. Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar also impressed, giving away just 26 runs in his four-over quota. Their tight spells prevented RCB from getting into a comfortable rhythm, setting up an intriguing second innings. The early wicket of Salt by Arshdeep only added more pressure on the visitors’ batting unit.

This was the second meeting between the two teams within a span of just three days. In their previous clash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, PBKS secured a convincing win in a rain-affected 14-over game, chasing down the target with five wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Tim David starred with the bat in that match and was deservedly named Player of the Match. As the 2025 season unfolds, this budding rivalry between PBKS and RCB continues to bring plenty of excitement.

]]>
<![CDATA[IPL 2025: Why is Romario Shepherd playing in today's PBKS vs RCB match ?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-romario-shepherd-playing-in-today-s-pbks-vs-rcb-match/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-why-is-romario-shepherd-playing-in-today-s-pbks-vs-rcb-match/ Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:47:02 GMT

After a disturbing performance against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in M. Chinnaswamy, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are now up against the same opponent, Punjab Kings, in their home ground, which is now Mullanpur Stadium. Unlike their home matches, RCB has achieved a very good winning record in their away games. To enhance their out-of-home winning ratio and to get back on the winning ways, Bengaluru has decided to play Romario Shepherd in place of Liam Livingstone. But why is the team management showing trust in the Caribbean over the T20 specialist Livingstone? 

Livingstone, from the beginning of the IPL 2025, is an integral part of the red and black squad, playing 7 matches so far but barely able to justify his name. 

The English batter is mostly known for his power-hitting skills, but for RCB, he was far away from his peak performance. In 6 innings, the right-handed batter welcomed only 87 runs in total, including a 54-run inning, 17.40 on average. Even with the ball in hand, Liam underperformed—2 wickets in 5 innings.

Read More: [Watch] Avesh Khan’s mother in tears after his match winning IPL 2025 spell

Royal Challengers Bengaluru needs someone on the field who can make some quick runs and support the bowling dependent as well. So, they choose to go with Romario Shepherd. The West Indian all-rounder has played plenty of cricket in subcontinent conditions, especially in franchise cricket. 

Romario's performance

The bowling all-rounder had a decent outing with Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2024, played a crucial unbeaten 39-run innings, and, overall, averaged 28.50 with MI, powered by an exceptional strike rate of 271.42. In the Caribbean Premier League, the 30-year-old all-rounder batted with a 161.04 strike rate, and in the Bangladesh Premier League, he recorded a 152.54 strike rate as a batter. 

Along with his big hitting skills, Shepherd's ability as a bowler is appreciable—72 wickets in CPL, 13 wickets in SA20, 5 wickets in BPL, and 4 wickets in IPL. 

Punjab Kings (Playing XI)

Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer (C), Josh Inglis (WK), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Impact players - Harpreet Brar, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Praveen Dubey, Glenn Maxwell and Suryansh Shedge.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI)

Virat Kohli, Phil Salt (WK), Rajat Patidar (C), Romario Shepherd (In for Liam Livingstone), Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal.

Impact players - Devdutt Padikkal, Rasikh Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell and Swapnil Singh.

]]>