The pressure mounts on Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the final league match of IPL 2025, in their quest to finish within the top two after nine years. The last occasion RCB achieved a top-two position in the points table was in 2016.
As the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches its climax, only one match remains in the league stage before the critical playoffs begin. While Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Mumbai Indians have confirmed their places in the knockout stage, attention remains on which two teams will end up in the top two, a significant advantage in striving for the final matchup.
Following their victory against Mumbai Indians on Monday, Punjab Kings currently lead the table with 19 points from 14 matches, closely followed by Gujarat Titans at 18 points. With 16 points from 14 games, Mumbai Indians have secured their fourth position.
The stakes are high for RCB, who are set to play Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the final league game, aiming for a top-two position for the first time in nine years. Having already been knocked out of playoff contention, LSG is free to play without pressure. RCB will be feeling the heat.
Under the guidance of new captain Rajat Patidar, RCB have displayed their best performance in IPL history since 2016, the last time they reached a final. From player selection at the mega auction to their overall performance—whether in batting or bowling—the Bengaluru team has excelled in all areas.
However, recent difficulties, particularly against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last match, have made RCB’s journey to the top two more precarious, with their fate dependent on the outcome of the clash with LSG.
Why is the matchup with LSG important for Royal Challengers Bengaluru?
If RCB wins against LSG, they will attain 19 points, tying them with Punjab Kings and securing a top-two finish. In the IPL, teams that finish in the top two after the league phase receive two opportunities to reach the final.
During Qualifier 1, a playoff match between the first and second-placed teams, the victor proceeds directly to the final. The losing team gets another shot at making it to the championship match. Should RCB lose to LSG on Tuesday, they will settle for third place in the table and face Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator.
A positive note for RCB is the return of pacer Josh Hazlewood, who has rejoined the team after dealing with a shoulder issue. With Jacob Bethell unavailable due to England duties, Phil Salt and Virat Kohli will need to provide a strong start at the top. RCB will be without pacer Lungi Ngidi, who has already departed for international duties.
Nonetheless, Captain Patidar’s availability remains uncertain. He suffered a finger injury on his right hand and participated as an impact player in their previous match against SRH. Jitesh Sharma took on the captaincy in Patidar’s absence.