IPL 2025: RCB bulldoze LSG; storm into qualifier 1 with magical chase

RCB Storm Into Qualifier 1 with Magical Chase Against LSG

Lucknow, May 28 — In a high-octane encounter at Lucknow, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a stunning six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), chasing down a mammoth target of 228 to book their spot in Qualifier 1 and climb to second on the points table.

After RCB won the toss and opted to field, LSG put on a batting masterclass. Captain Rishabh Pant led from the front with a sensational 118 off 61 balls, peppered with eight towering sixes. He was well-supported by Mitchell Marsh, who scored a fluent 67 off 37 balls. LSG looked dominant throughout their innings, reaching 50 in just 5.4 overs, 100 in 9.5, and finishing strong at 227/3 in 20 overs.

However, RCB turned the game on its head with a blazing start. They reached 50 in just 24 balls and 100 in 9.1 overs. Virat Kohli laid the platform with a brisk 54 off 30 balls, though his dismissal threatened to derail the chase. But captain Jithesh rose to the occasion, smashing a breathtaking 85 off just 33 deliveries, guiding his side home with four balls to spare.

This remarkable run-chase not only sealed victory for RCB but also ensured their qualification for the first playoff match, keeping their title hopes alive.