RCB storms into IPL 2025 final with record 60-ball playoff win over Punjab Kings

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a commanding place in the IPL 2025 final with a record-setting eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS). Chasing a modest target of 101 runs, RCB completed the win with 60 balls remaining, marking the largest margin by balls left in IPL playoff history.

Punjab Kings struggled with the bat, being bowled out for a mere 101 runs in 14.1 overs, which ranks as the joint-third lowest total in IPL playoff or knockout matches. The match itself lasted only 145 balls, making it the joint-third shortest completed IPL game excluding shortened matches.

RCB opener Phil Salt was instrumental, scoring an unbeaten 56 off 27 deliveries, guiding his team to a dominant victory. This win surpassed the previous record of 57 balls remaining, set by Kolkata Knight Riders against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

This victory propels RCB directly into the final scheduled for Tuesday, marking their first final appearance since 2016 and their fourth overall, having previously reached the final in 2009, 2011, and 2016.

"Phil Salt struck an unbeaten 56 from 27 deliveries as RCB recorded the biggest win by balls remaining in the history of the IPL play-offs," highlighting the team's clinical performance.

The comprehensive nature of the win underscores RCB's strong form heading into the final, while Punjab Kings will reflect on their batting collapse that set the tone for the match.

RCB's record-breaking playoff win cements their status as serious contenders for the IPL 2025 title.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into the IPL 2025 final with a record-breaking eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings, chasing down 101 runs with 60 balls to spare—the largest margin by balls remaining in IPL playoff history. This marks RCB's first final appearance since 2016.