Thu May 29 18:20:48 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Royal Challengers Bengaluru Crush Punjab Kings, Secure First IPL Final Berth Since 2016**

**BENGALURU, INDIA** – Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a dominant performance Thursday, thrashing the Punjab Kings by eight wickets in a lopsided qualifier to secure their place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final. This marks RCB’s first final appearance since 2016, fueling hopes of a maiden title for the franchise.

RCB’s bowlers set the stage for victory, restricting Punjab Kings to a paltry 102 runs in just 14.1 overs. Josh Hazlewood, returning from a shoulder niggle, led the attack with a devastating spell, taking 3 wickets for 21 runs. Suyash Sharma also impressed, claiming 3 wickets for 17 runs.

The RCB batsmen made quick work of the chase, reaching the target in just 10 overs. Opener Phil Salt led the charge with an explosive 56 not out, while captain Rajat Patidar sealed the victory with a six.

While Virat Kohli, who has been with the franchise since the inaugural 2008 edition, only scored 12 runs, he remains Bengaluru’s leading scorer this season and a key figure in their quest for the title.

“It’s a great feeling right now,” Salt said after the match. “It just gives us that momentum. It’s such a cliche, but it’s so true at the back end of the tournament.”

Punjab Kings still have a chance to reach the final if they win the second qualifier against the winner of Friday’s eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans.

RCB will now await the winner of the second qualifier in Sunday’s final, hoping to finally lift the IPL trophy after previous final defeats in 2009, 2011, and 2016.

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