RCB’s Playoff Race Heats Up: Bengaluru Drops to Third After SRH Defeat—Updated IPL 2025 Points Table
Updated: May 24, 2025 13:12
Image Source: Times of India
The IPL 2025 playoff race took a dramatic turn as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) slipped to third place following a 42-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium. The loss has complicated RCB’s hopes of securing a top-two finish, making the final round of league matches a must-watch for fans and teams alike.
Key Highlights:
RCB’s Setback: Chasing a daunting 232 set by SRH—powered by Ishan Kishan’s unbeaten 94—RCB started strong with Phil Salt (62) and Virat Kohli (43) but faltered in the latter half, getting bowled out for 189. This was RCB’s first away defeat of the season and a major blow to their net run rate.
Updated Standings: With this defeat, RCB now sits third on the table with 17 points from 13 matches and a net run rate of +0.255. Gujarat Titans (18 points) lead, followed by Punjab Kings (17 points, higher NRR), with Mumbai Indians (16 points) completing the top four.
Playoff Equation: RCB has already qualified for the playoffs but now needs to win their final league match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 27 to keep top-two hopes alive. Even then, their fate depends on results from other key matches involving Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings.
SRH’s Impact: Despite their win, SRH remains eighth on the table and out of playoff contention, but their upset has blown the race for the top two wide open.
What’s Next: The final league games will determine the top two, with net run rate set to play a crucial role. RCB must not only win but also hope for favorable outcomes elsewhere to secure a Qualifier 1 spot.
As the IPL 2025 season nears its climax, every run and wicket will be vital in the battle for playoff supremacy.
Sources: Times of India, NDTV, MyKhel, Indian Express, Hindustan Times