RCB Surge at Home- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have now clinched six wins out of their nine matches in IPL 2025, but Thursday night’s 11-run victory over Rajasthan Royals (RR) held special significance—it marked their first home win of the season. With three of their remaining five matches set to be played in Bengaluru, RCB’s timely resurgence spells promise. For RR, however, things are spiraling. It’s hard to recall their last win as a series of failed chases continues to haunt them. Mathematically, a playoff spot remains within reach, but realistically, the path looks steep.
Sandeep Sharma: Crunch Moments Costing Us
RR pacer Sandeep Sharma addressed the media following the loss, offering a candid reflection on their recurring issues.
“We haven’t been able to grab the crunch moments, whether we are chasing or defending,” he said. “In T20s, every team gets those moments you have to seize. This year, we’re dropping vital catches and losing wickets exactly when we need to push. We’re crumbling in the crunch.”
The latest example came at the end of their chase. After smashing 22 runs off Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the 18th over, RR were left with just 18 to get from 12 balls, with five wickets in hand. Yet, they could only manage six runs while losing four wickets—another collapse under pressure.
RCB’s Calm Under Fire
While RR faltered, RCB thrived. Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal held their nerve with the ball in the death overs, showcasing control under pressure. Head coach Andy Flower praised their composure:
“We were under pressure when they needed 18 off 12. The way the bowlers and Rajat Patidar, our captain, held themselves out there—I’m really proud.”
This composure, combined with improved adaptability by their batting unit, helped RCB finally break their home jinx.
“Our fans were anxious for a home win. We’ve lost four tosses at home and had to defend totals every time. It’s tough in these conditions, but our players adapted beautifully today,” Flower added.
A Playoff Push in Sight
RCB’s win elevated them to third in the standings, positioning them well for a playoff berth. Former Australia captain Aaron Finch believes they’re strong contenders.
“They’ve got momentum now and the monkey off their back when it comes to home games. If they get lucky with a few tosses, they’ll be hard to beat.”
Ambati Rayudu, who had boldly predicted an RCB title win earlier in the season, is doubling down on his forecast.
“They should be aiming for the top two now. That’s where their focus should be. They can win the IPL this year.
Meanwhile, RR Struggle to Regain Rhythm
The Royals, on the other hand, are headed back to the drawing board. With five games left, there’s still a theoretical chance to turn it around, but form and momentum aren’t on their side.
“We should just go out there and express ourselves,” Sandeep Sharma said. “In all three losses, we needed around nine an over—that shouldn’t be hard in today’s T20 game. But we’re losing wickets at critical points and failing to execute under pressure.”
He also lamented the dip in fielding standards and lack of spark from previously reliable performers.
“Last season, guys like Riyan, Dhruv, and Yashasvi were winning us games. We were sharp in the field. That’s something we’re missing this year.”
Looking Ahead
RCB now look like a team peaking at the right time. With home conditions finally working in their favor, and momentum building, their playoff hopes are not only alive but thriving.
For RR, every game is now a must-win. The talent is there, but unless they can rediscover their ability to win pressure moments, their campaign could slip away fast.
