RCB Ends Wankhede Curse With Thrilling 12-Run Victory

In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) triumphed over the Mumbai Indians (MI) by 12 runs on April 7, 2025. This victory not only marked RCB's first win at Wankhede in a decade but also secured their third consecutive away win in the IPL 2025 season.

Opting to bowl first, MI's captain Hardik Pandya aimed to exploit the conditions, especially with the dew expected to play a role later in the match. However, RCB's batting lineup proved formidable as they posted a mammoth 221 runs for the loss of five wickets. The innings was anchored by a brilliant 67 runs off 42 balls from Virat Kohli, who showcased his class with seven boundaries and two sixes. Alongside him, Rajat Patidar delivered a sensational performance, scoring 64 runs off just 32 balls, including five boundaries and four sixes.

The pair's partnership was pivotal, as they built a solid foundation after the early dismissal of Phil Salt, who was bowled by Trent Boult for a mere four runs. Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal (37 off 22) combined for a crucial 91-run stand, setting the stage for a late innings assault from Jitesh Sharma, who contributed a blistering 40 runs off just 19 balls.

Despite MI's efforts to contain the scoring, they were unable to stop RCB from crossing the 200-run mark, which was achieved with a massive six from Jitesh Sharma in the 19th over. The MI bowlers struggled, with Boult conceding 57 runs for two wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah, returning from injury, went for 29 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket.

Chasing a daunting target of 222, MI's innings began on a shaky note as they lost both openers early. Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 17 runs, bowled by Yash Dayal, while Ryan Rickelton fell to Josh Hazlewood for 17 as well. The pressure mounted when Suryakumar Yadav, who had been a key player for MI, was also dismissed for 28 runs, leaving the team reeling at 99 for 4 after 12 overs.

However, a remarkable counterattack from Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma brought MI back into contention. The duo added 89 runs for the fifth wicket in just 34 balls, igniting hopes among MI fans. Tilak Varma was particularly aggressive, scoring 56 runs off 29 balls, while Pandya finished with a blistering 42 runs off just 15 balls.

As the chase intensified, MI found themselves needing 19 runs from the final over. With Krunal Pandya bowling, the situation turned dramatically as he took two wickets with the first two balls, dismissing Mitchell Santner and Deepak Chahar. MI's hopes of a comeback were dashed, and they ultimately fell short, finishing their innings at 209 runs.

Krunal Pandya's exceptional final over, where he took three wickets and conceded only six runs, was crucial in sealing the victory for RCB. His performance was instrumental in defending the total, and he was praised for his composure under pressure.

Post-match, Rajat Patidar was awarded the Player of the Match for his explosive innings that helped set up RCB's total. In his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to the entire bowling unit, particularly highlighting Krunal Pandya's outstanding performance in the final over.

This match not only marked a significant victory for RCB but also raised questions for MI, who now find themselves with just one win from five matches this season. The pressure is mounting on the five-time champions to find their form as they look ahead to their next fixtures.

As the IPL 2025 season progresses, fans can expect more thrilling encounters, and both teams will be eager to capitalize on their performances as they strive for a better position in the points table.