IPL 2025: Suyash Sharma’s bowling was the ‘Play of the Day’ in the PBKS vs RCB match
Suyash Sharma

**RCB Crush PBKS by 8 Wickets to Storm into IPL 2025 Final**
The first Qualifier of IPL 2025 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was played at Mullanpur on May 29, and it turned out to be a completely one-sided affair. With a dominant all-round performance, RCB outplayed PBKS and secured a thumping 8-wicket win to enter the finals. This crucial win not only took RCB into the title match but also showcased their sharp form and hunger to finally lift their maiden IPL trophy. The star of the show was young leg-spinner **Suyash Sharma**, whose brilliant spell made him the standout performer and earned him the **Player of the Match** award.
RCB’s skipper Rajat Patidar led the side with confidence, and his decision to bowl first paid off handsomely. Punjab Kings struggled right from the beginning as RCB’s bowling attack, especially Suyash, kept the pressure on. PBKS never found any momentum in their innings and were bundled out for a paltry 101 runs. Suyash Sharma bowled a remarkable spell, finishing with figures of **3 wickets for just 17 runs in his 3 overs**. He dismissed key batters like Marcus Stoinis (26), Shashank Singh (3), and Mushir Khan (0), breaking the back of Punjab’s batting line-up. His bowling was widely regarded as the **"Play of the Day"**, a title well-earned for his impact on the match.

Other RCB bowlers also chipped in to maintain the pressure. With accurate bowling, smart field placements, and great energy on the field, RCB never allowed PBKS to settle. By the halfway mark, Punjab was already in deep trouble, and eventually folded for just 101, which is well below par even by playoff standards.
In reply, RCB chased down the target with ease. Their batsmen came out with positive intent and made sure there were no hiccups. They reached the target in just **10 overs**, losing only two wickets along the way. The calm and composed approach from the top order made the small chase look even easier. With such a convincing win, RCB sent a strong message to their opponents in the tournament that they are serious contenders this time.
This win has special importance for RCB fans, as the team has now reached the **IPL final for the fourth time** in history. Previously, they had made it to the finals in **2009, 2011, and 2016**, but unfortunately, the trophy has eluded them each time. However, the current squad looks more balanced and determined. With experienced players like **Virat Kohli** and strong emerging talents like **Suyash Sharma**, there’s a new kind of energy and belief in the team.
As things stand now, **RCB will play in the IPL 2025 Final on June 3**, where they will meet the winner of Qualifier-2. Before that, the **Eliminator match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians** will take place on **May 30**. The winner of that match will go on to play against PBKS in **Qualifier-2**, and the winner of that game will then face RCB in the final.
This win not only keeps RCB’s dream alive but also raises the excitement among fans who have been waiting for the team to lift the trophy for the first time. If they continue to perform like this, especially with their bowlers stepping up in big games, **IPL 2025 might finally be the year when RCB’s 17-year wait ends**. All eyes are now on the final showdown, where RCB will look to seal their legacy with a historic win.



Comments (1)
That was quite a one-sided game! RCB really dominated. Suyash Sharma's spell was amazing. Three wickets for 17 runs is incredible. It definitely deserved the "Play of the Day" title. I'm curious, do you think RCB can keep this momentum going in the final? And what do you reckon PBKS could've done differently to avoid such a thrashing?