[Photos] Virat Kohli and RCB players played pickleball after practice session was cancelled

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) next match in the IPL 2025 season is scheduled against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and fans are eagerly awaiting this crucial face-off. The Bangalore-based franchise has been in outstanding form this season, putting in consistent performances that have propelled them into the playoff stage well ahead of the league phase conclusion. With 8 wins and 17 points from 12 matches, RCB has secured their place in the playoffs. However, the team’s ambitions don’t stop there. Their current focus is to finish in the top two positions of the points table, which would give them the advantage of two chances to make it to the final. To do this, RCB must win both of their remaining league games, including the next one against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23.

In preparation for this upcoming fixture, RCB had scheduled a practice session. However, due to unexpected rain, the session had to be called off. Making the best out of the situation, several RCB players, including Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, and Liam Livingstone, were seen engaging in a game of pickleball. The team’s camaraderie and relaxed environment were evident as the franchise shared lighthearted pictures of the players enjoying their time on social media. These behind-the-scenes moments not only highlight the team’s unity but also show their ability to remain focused yet light-spirited even amid challenges like weather disruptions.

Originally, the RCB vs SRH match was scheduled to be played at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. However, given the unpredictable weather conditions in the region, the venue has now been shifted to the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Interestingly, RCB’s last league stage game is also set to take place at Ekana, where they will face the Lucknow Super Giants on May 27. This back-to-back fixture at the same venue could give RCB some familiarity with the pitch and conditions, potentially working in their favor.

The bigger picture, however, lies in the race to secure a top-2 finish. The competition is stiff, with Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all still in the hunt for those top spots. Gujarat Titans currently lead with 9 wins and 19 points from 12 matches. If they continue their winning streak and secure victories in their final two league games, they are almost guaranteed a top-2 finish. Meanwhile, both RCB and PBKS sit at 17 points with two games remaining. If either of these teams manages to win both of their remaining matches, they could potentially reach 21 points. In such a scenario, the net run rate (NRR) would become the deciding factor to determine who earns the coveted top-2 position and advances to Qualifier 1.

Therefore, RCB’s path to a top-2 finish is clear but not easy. They must not only win their matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants but also hope that either the Gujarat Titans or Punjab Kings drop at least one of their upcoming matches. This would open up a window for RCB to move up the table. Run rate will be critical, so convincing wins will be just as important as the wins themselves.

As the league heads into its most thrilling phase, every ball, every over, and every strategy will matter. For RCB fans, the hope remains that their team continues its exceptional form, capitalizes on opportunities, and keeps their dreams of lifting the IPL trophy alive. Whether on the field or during unexpected breaks playing pickleball, this team is proving they’re united, focused, and ready for the challenges ahead.