Sun May 25 16:50:00 UTC 2025: **RCB Collapses in Stunning Loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad After Promising Start**
**Dubai, UAE** – In a dramatic turn of events at the IPL last night, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) suffered a stunning 42-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after a seemingly comfortable position. Chasing a formidable 231, RCB got off to a blistering start, reaching 72/0 in the first 6 overs and 167/3 by the 15th over. However, a shocking collapse in the following overs saw them lose their last seven wickets for a mere 16 runs, ultimately being bowled out for 189.
Virat Kohli (43 off 25) and Phil Salt (62 off 32) provided a strong foundation, adding 80 runs for the first wicket. Despite the quick dismissals of Salt and Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar and captain Jitesh Sharma kept RCB in the hunt. At 173/3 after 16.3 overs, with power hitters like Tim David, Romario Shepherd, and Krunal Pandya waiting in the wings, victory seemed within reach.
However, SRH bowler Eshan Malinga turned the game on its head in the 17th over, dismissing Patidar with a direct hit and then removing Shepherd for a duck. Jaydev Undkat then dismissed Sharma in the same over. Malinga returned to dismiss David, effectively sealing RCB’s fate.
SRH’s victory was largely driven by Eshan Kishan’s brilliant, unbeaten innings of 94 off 48 balls. Kishan, who was named Player of the Match, anchored the innings after SRH lost Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head early on. His knock propelled SRH to a commanding total of 231.
“We thought it was a 180-200 run pitch, but Kishan took us over 230,” said SRH captain Pat Cummins after the match.
RCB captain Jitesh Sharma admitted that the loss was a good opportunity to identify weaknesses. This defeat has pushed RCB down to third place in the points table.
SRH, already out of playoff contention, will face Kolkata Knight Riders in their final match. They will be looking to continue experimenting with their lineup for next season.
First Piper 