Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have roared back into contention in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), defying the odds and positioning themselves as serious contenders for their maiden IPL title. After years of heartbreak and near misses, RCB are now banging on the door of the playoffs, showcasing a balanced team effort that has seen them peak at the perfect time.
Unlike their dramatic comeback in IPL 2024, where they had to win seven matches on the bounce to qualify, this season has been a story of consistency and resurgence. Currently third in the points table with 10 points from 8 matches, including 5 wins, RCB are proving they are more than just a fan favorite—they’re a force to be reckoned with IPL Points Table. Here’s a closer look at their journey, focusing on their batting, bowling, and what lies ahead.
Batting: Beyond Virat Kohli’s Shadow
RCB’s batting unit has undergone a transformation in IPL 2025, moving away from being overly reliant on Virat Kohli (322 runs in 8 innings at 140 strike rate). While Kohli remains a linchpin, scoring quick fifties like his fastest T20 fifty since 2019 against Mumbai Indians, the team’s depth has been a revelation. Players like Rajat Patidar (221 runs in 7 innings at strike rate of 151.37), Phil Salt (213 runs in 8 innings at a strike rate of 179), and Devdutt Padikkal have provided explosive starts, while the middle order, featuring Jitesh Sharma, has consistently stepped up.
Their aggressive intent was on full display in their match against Gujarat Titans, where they scored 169/8 despite losing their top four early, thanks to a 52-run partnership between Livingstone and Jitesh Sharma RCB vs GT Report. The top-order contribution has dropped this year, with the middle and lower order contributing more of the runs at a strike rate of 170.25, a significant improvement from 143.80 in earlier seasons. This depth and fearlessness have made RCB’s batting a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for their resurgence.
The Rise of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya
RCB’s bowling attack, historically a weak link, has been revitalized in IPL 2025 with the addition of Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Bhuvi) and Krunal Pandya. These two acquisitions, secured for ₹10.75 crore and ₹5.75 crore respectively, have brought experience, skill, and much-needed depth to the bowling unit RCB Squad Details.
Bhuvi, a two-time Purple Cap winner, is known for his swing and death-overs mastery, while Krunal has provided both spin and all-round utility, making him a versatile asset.
In their marquee win against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium—a venue where RCB had not won since 2015—Bhuvi and Krunal played pivotal roles. Defending 221, RCB faced a scare as Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma added 89 runs in 34 balls.
However, Bhuvi’s pinpoint yorkers in the death overs and Krunal’s defensive masterclass in the final over, where he defended 18 runs and finished with figures of 4-0-45-4, sealed a famous victory MI vs RCB . Krunal’s performance marked his best bowling figures in IPL history, highlighting his growing importance to the team.
Andy Flower, RCB’s head coach, emphasized the impact of these acquisitions, stating, “It was really great to get Bhuvi today. That level of skill, along with Krunal’s capabilities, will complement Hazelwood’s return to RCB. His experience will be invaluable”. With Josh Hazlewood and Tim David, RCB’s bowling unit is now well-rounded, capable of performing in all phases of the game.
What Lies Ahead: Playoffs and Beyond
RCB’s consistent performance this season, with no need for a late comeback like in IPL 2024, positions them as strong playoff contenders. In 2024, RCB struggled early, a win-loss ratio of 0.666, the third lowest in the league. Their turnaround came after a chastening defeat to Mumbai Indians at Wankhede, leading to six consecutive wins to secure a playoff spot.
In contrast, IPL 2025 has seen RCB maintain a high run rate and win-loss ratio from the outset, with back-to-back wins against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings setting the tone.
Looking ahead, RCB’s schedule includes crucial matches against teams like Punjab Kings, whom they recently defeated by chasing 157 with ease, thanks to twin half-centuries from Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli PBKS vs RCB Review.
Matches against Chennai Super Kings and other top-four contenders will test their mettle, but RCB’s current form, with a balanced batting lineup and a resurgent bowling attack, gives them an edge. Their ability to peak at the right time, unlike last year when they relied on a miraculous winning streak, is a testament to their growth under new captain Rajat Patidar and coach Andy Flower.
With the playoffs just around the corner, RCB are not just knocking on the door—they are kicking it down. Their resurgence in IPL 2025 is a story of redemption, teamwork, and strategic brilliance, setting the stage for what could be their maiden IPL triumph. The Chinnaswamy faithful, long yearning for silverware, have every reason to believe that this could be their year.
Also Read: PBKS vs RCB: Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal Hammer PBKS