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.
RCB's resurgence this season has been powered by Virat Kohli's vintage form. The former captain has amassed 505 runs in 11 innings at an average of 63.12 and a strike rate of 143.46. His experience at the top, alongside the aggression of Phil Salt and stability of Devdutt Padikkal, has laid strong foundations.
The middle order has found its rhythm too. Patidar has notched up 239 runs at a healthy strike rate, while the lower order has been bolstered by the presence of Tim David and West Indian allrounder Romario Shepherd, whose 53* off just 14 balls against Chennai Super Kings remains one of the season's standout death-over cameos.
Yet, the absence of Australian pace ace Josh Hazlewood remains a concern. His control in the powerplay and death overs has often been a difference-maker. In his absence, the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya will have to shoulder greater responsibility, particularly against SRH’s explosive top order.
Despite their turbulent campaign, Hyderabad have shown flashes of brilliance. Much of their batting spark has come from Abhishek Sharma, who has emerged as one of the tournament’s most destructive openers. The left-hander has scored 373 runs at a staggering strike rate of 192.26, including a 20-ball 59 at Lucknow.
However, uncertainty looms over Travis Head’s availability, with the Australian opener still recovering from illness. His return could give the visitors a much-needed boost.
In the middle order, Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan have had hot-and-cold outings, but both are capable of match-winning efforts on their day. Aniket Verma has quietly contributed down the order with impactful cameos, while their bowling attack, led by Cummins and supported by Harshal Patel, Zeeshan Ansari, and Eshan Malinga—has shown signs of settling.
The pitch at Lucknow is expected to offer a decent contest between bat and ball, with moderate scoring conditions and some assistance for spinners in the middle overs. However, with humidity high and dew expected in the evening, the toss could play a crucial role.
Of the six IPL matches held here, five have been won by the side chasing, a pattern that both captains will be aware of when they walk out for the toss.
RCB's motivation goes beyond just maintaining momentum. A win here and in their final league match could all but seal a top-two berth, placing them in a strong position heading into the playoffs. For SRH, meanwhile, it is a chance to play spoilsport and regain some pride after a disappointing season.
Regardless of what the points table says, the contest promises high-quality cricket, with big names, playoff stakes, and pride all on the line.
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