SRH offers RCB a actuality test, makes IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 dream robust for Patidar & Co.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have already qualified for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Playoffs. But with two matches left, Rajat Patidar’s team had their eyes set on finishing the season in the top two. Interim captain Jitesh Sharma openly stated that they want to qualify for the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 and then go on to lift their maiden trophy.

They can still get that silverware on June 3, but their chances of reaching Qualifier 1 have taken a major hit. RCB entered the game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with the chance to displace Gujarat Titans (GT) from the top of the points table. And for a while, that seemed possible.

RCB’s injury woes

But a mini-collapse in the second innings might see two of GT, Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Mumbai Indians (MI) end at the top. RCB had neither a good start nor a good finish. And one can’t blame them that much. They hadn’t played a game since May 3. Their regular captain, Patidar, was playing as an impact sub. And they have already lost Devdutt Padikkal to injury. Josh Hazlewood isn’t available either.

In the Australian’s absence, RCB seems to be lacking the wicket-taking ability. Suyash Sharma and Yash Dayal were being hit so badly that Jitesh didn’t even let them finish their quota of overs. But despite an ordinary bowling display, RCB were in the game. Phil Salt and Virat Kohli scored 72 runs in the powerplay. 105 of the 189 runs RCB scored came off their bats.

But no other batter crossed the 25-run mark. Mayank Agarwal, who was playing his first game of IPL 2025, couldn’t do much. Patidar’s rustiness was on display. Tim David had injured his hamstring and couldn’t even move his left leg. RCB was 120/2 in 10.4 overs. But in the next 9.1 overs, they lost 8 wickets for just 69 runs.

Going ahead, things don’t look that good. Patidar is injured and out of form. Salt and Jacob Bethell will leave before the IPL 2025 Playoffs. Who knows whether David can play? Hazlewood may not come back. Lungi Ngidi might not even be available for the next match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 27.