Lucknow, May 22 (UNI) With playoff qualification already secured, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be aiming to tighten their grip on a top-two finish when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 65 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at Bharat Ratna Atala Bihari Vajpayee Ekna Stadium here on Friday.
Having accumulated 17 points from 12 matches, RCB are one of the most consistent sides this season. The Rajat Patidar-led outfit will look to avoid the knockout uncertainty of Eliminator 1 by sealing a place in the top two, which would grant them a crucial second shot at the final via Qualifier 1. For a side that has come close in the past but never lifted the trophy, this strategic advantage is invaluable.
In stark contrast, Sunrisers Hyderabad, last season’s finalists, are already out of the playoff race. With just four wins in twelve matches, SRH languish near the bottom of the table. However, a spirited win over Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow earlier this week has lifted morale, and Pat Cummins’ men will be eager to end their campaign on a high.