[WATCH] IPL 2025: Virat Kohli acts like true leader as RCB bowlers breathe fire against PBKS in Qualifier 1
RCB need to chase 102 runs in 20 overs against PBKS.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) former skipper Virat Kohli may have left the captaincy for the franchise, but brought intensity to the forefront during the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Mullanpur. He is known for his fiery passion, and was fully involved on the field while guiding the team’s field placements and advising bowlers on their approach.
Right from the onset of the match, beginning at the Maharaja Yadavindra International Cricket Stadium, Kohli was seen pumping up the confidence of his teammates and urging them to stay sharp. His animated presence helped maintain high energy levels within the RCB side, which proved crucial in this do-or-die clash.
Watch the video of Virat Kohli acting like a true leader here
[WATCH] Suyash Sharma spins web around PBKS at Mullanpur
RCB’s bowlers were on the top from the start. The left-arm pacer Yash Dayal set the tone early by claiming a wicket in the second over, which gave the Bengaluru-based franchise early momentum. After that, it was followed by an excellent spell of pressure as RCB bowlers struck in successive overs and never allowed PBKS to settle.
Suyash Sharma was the top performer with the ball by spinning a web around the PBKS batters. He returned with figures of 3 for 17 while dismissing key players Shashank Singh, Musheer Khan, and Marcus Stoinis. Josh Hazlewood also did his part perfectly and took 3 for 21 with his pace bowling.
PBKS were bowled out for just 101 in 14.1 overs, with Stoinis top-scoring with 26. It was a dominant all-round bowling performance from RCB. With only 102 runs to chase, RCB had a great opportunity to book their spot in the IPL 2025 Final.
The win in Qualifier 1 would provide the victorious side a direct ticket to the final showdown scheduled for June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
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