Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the final of the TATA Indian Premier League 2025 with a commanding 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur last night.

After being asked to bat first, PBKS crumbled under pressure, managing only 101 runs in 14.1 overs. RCB’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood (3/21) and Suyash Sharma (3/17), dismantled the PBKS batting order with ruthless efficiency. Hazlewood struck early to remove the in-form openers, while Sharma’s clever variations in pace proved too difficult for the middle order to handle.

In reply, RCB made light work of the chase. England’s Phil Salt anchored the innings with a blistering 56 not out off just 27 balls, showcasing fearless strokeplay and smart shot selection. RCB crossed the finish line in just 10 overs, losing only two wickets and sending a strong message to their potential final opponents.

This victory marks RCB’s fourth IPL final appearance and their first in nine years. With confidence high and both their batting and bowling units peaking at the right time, RCB will now await the outcome of the second qualifier to see who they’ll face in the grand finale on June 3.