By RCB vs KKR IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bangalore Dominate Kolkata Knight Riders with a Clinical Chase
In a gripping contest at Eden Gardens, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) delivered an emphatic performance to defeat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 7 wickets, with 22 balls to spare. This win was a testament to RCB’s clinical approach, as they chased down a modest target of 176 runs with ease, driven by key performances from their batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. Consequently, RCB’s dominance throughout the match left KKR struggling to catch up, and their steady, composed chase sealed the deal comfortably.
KKR’s Struggles with the Bat
Batting first, Kolkata Knight Riders found themselves on the back foot right from the start. RCB’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Siraj, set the tone early by maintaining tight lines and lengths, which made it difficult for the KKR batters to get going. As a result, wickets fell regularly. Although some players showed resilience in the middle overs, KKR’s innings never gained the momentum needed for a competitive total.
For instance, Shubman Gill, who had been in great form throughout the season, tried to anchor the innings but was dismissed for just 28 runs. Similarly, Captain Rinku Singh, who has had moments of brilliance this season, could not convert his start into a match-winning knock and was dismissed for 34 runs. Meanwhile, the only real resistance came from Venkatesh Iyer, who played a brief cameo, scoring 45 off 32 balls. However, his efforts were not enough to propel KKR to a more imposing total.
Furthermore, the lower middle order failed to capitalize. As a result, KKR ended up posting a total of 175/6 in their 20 overs. Mohammad Siraj was the standout bowler for RCB, finishing with figures of 3/29. His timely wickets and disciplined bowling made a significant impact on KKR’s batting progress.
Kohli and Salt Set the Tone in the Chase
RCB’s response with the bat was clinical and dominant. The chase began with a solid foundation provided by the opening duo of Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. Kohli, the seasoned campaigner, was in his element as he played a series of elegant strokes and rotated the strike effortlessly. His timing was impeccable, and he continued to find the gaps with ease.
In addition, Salt, the aggressive English batter, complemented Kohli perfectly with his fearless hitting. He took on the KKR bowlers from the outset, peppering the boundaries and lofting balls over the ropes with precision. The duo’s 90-run opening partnership was crucial in setting up the chase for RCB, leaving the opposition with little margin for error.
Kohli brought up his half-century in style with a stunning boundary to fine leg, marking yet another brilliant innings in the IPL 2025 season. Meanwhile, Salt demonstrated his power-hitting abilities, launching a couple of sixes into the stands, which not only thrilled the crowd but also kept RCB ahead in the chase.
Unfortunately, Salt was dismissed for 43 runs after attempting a big shot off Sunil Narine. By that time, however, RCB was well on their way to victory. His knock had laid the perfect foundation, and RCB needed just 40 runs from the remaining 5 overs.
So this was the storm the weather department had warned about in Kolkata pic.twitter.com/bbryrmoe0c
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) March 22, 2025
Maxwell and Karthik Finish with Flair
Despite Salt’s dismissal, RCB never seemed in danger of losing control. Glenn Maxwell, known for his big-hitting abilities, played a measured and effective knock, finishing unbeaten on 34 off 18 balls. His composure under pressure was evident as he took the game deep without ever letting the required run rate spiral.
Moreover, Dinesh Karthik, who had been in excellent form with the bat this season, finished the game off in style, hitting a boundary to seal the win. His unbeaten 17 off 8 balls ensured that RCB reached the target with 22 balls to spare, completing a dominating 7-wicket win.
A Statement Victory for RCB
RCB’s comfortable win over KKR sends a strong message to the rest of the teams in the IPL 2025. Their well-rounded performance, combining solid batting, effective bowling, and tactical acumen, shows that they are a formidable force this season. With key players like Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Mohammad Siraj, and Glenn Maxwell in top form, RCB has the potential to challenge any team in the tournament.
This victory not only boosts RCB’s confidence but also strengthens their position in the race for the playoffs. Their dominance in the chase and ability to finish matches with ease is a huge positive as they look ahead to the rest of the season.
RCB starting ‘IPL 18’ with a bang pic.twitter.com/62aOL21Fbi
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) March 22, 2025
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