By IPL 2025: RCB Edge Past CSK in a Last-Over Thriller – Match 52 Highlights
RCB vs CSK Thriller: In a high-stakes encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by just 2 runs in Match 52 of IPL 2025, held at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The victory helped RCB consolidate their position at the top of the points table, while CSK’s playoff hopes took a major hit.
But this match was more than just numbers and standings. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, packed with power-hitting, heroic partnerships, and a nail-biting finish that reminded fans why the IPL is often called the best T20 league in the world.
RCB Bat First: Kohli and Shepherd Light It Up
After winning the toss, RCB chose to bat first on a pitch known for big totals. They got off to a blazing start thanks to Virat Kohli, who continued his rich vein of form. Kohli looked in complete control, punishing both pace and spin as he raced to 62 off 33 balls, peppering the ground with six boundaries and three sixes.
Kohli found strong support in Jacob Bethell, the young left-hander from Barbados, who scored a composed 55 off 33 balls. The duo stitched together a 97-run opening stand, laying the perfect foundation.
However, it was Romario Shepherd who stole the show in the latter half of the innings. Coming in during the death overs, Shepherd unleashed carnage, smashing 53 off just 14 balls, including 4 fours and 6 sixes. His fireworks lifted RCB to a daunting total of 213/5 in their 20 overs.
For CSK, Matheesha Pathirana was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/36, while Sam Curran chipped in with a wicket.
CSK’s Response: A Tale of Grit and Missed Chances
Chasing 214 was never going to be easy, but CSK’s chase started on a shaky note as they lost Ruturaj Gaikwad and Moeen Ali early. Enter Ayush Mhatre, the 17-year-old prodigy, who played one of the most mature innings of this IPL season.
With elegance and aggression, Mhatre took the attack to RCB bowlers. He was joined by the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja, and the two built a massive partnership worth 114 runs. Mhatre’s 94 off 48 balls, including 7 fours and 6 sixes, was a masterclass in controlled aggression.
Jadeja, playing second fiddle initially, turned the heat up in the death overs. His unbeaten 77 off 45 balls nearly took CSK across the finish line. But with 15 needed off the final over, RCB’s Yash Dayal held his nerve. He dismissed MS Dhoni, who came in for the final flourish, and conceded just 12 runs, sealing a dramatic win for RCB.
Turning Points of the Match
1. Kohli’s Early Dominance
Kohli’s aggressive yet elegant start gave RCB the perfect momentum, ensuring CSK was always chasing the game.
2. Shepherd’s Brutal Assault
His late-innings blitz proved to be the difference in the end, providing crucial extra runs.
3. Final Over Execution
With MS Dhoni at the crease and only 15 needed, CSK fans believed the match was theirs. But Yash Dayal’s final over execution silenced the crowd.
What This Means for Both Teams
With this win, RCB moved to the top of the points table and became strong contenders for a top-two finish, giving them an extra shot in the playoffs. Their batting depth and bowling composure under pressure were major positives.
For CSK, while the result was disappointing, the performance of Ayush Mhatre was a massive takeaway. His maturity under pressure signals the arrival of a future superstar. Jadeja’s consistency also remains a big asset, but their middle-order failures and lack of bowling depth remain concerns.
Conclusion: IPL Drama at Its Finest
Match 52 between RCB and CSK was a quintessential IPL thriller—filled with superstar performances, young talent rising to the occasion, and a climax that could have gone either way. These are the moments that make the IPL a spectacle.
As both teams look ahead to their remaining fixtures, fans can only hope for more such electric encounters. For now, RCB will bask in the glory of a hard-fought victory, while CSK must regroup quickly to keep their playoff hopes alive.
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