Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to host the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a crucial IPL 2025 clash at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on April 24. This match marks the 42nd fixture of the season, with RCB looking to maintain their strong position in the points table, currently sitting third with five wins from eight matches. Fresh off a dominant seven-wicket victory over Punjab Kings, RCB is eager to break their home winless streak this season, having lost all three matches played at their fortress so far.
In contrast, the Rajasthan Royals find themselves in a precarious situation, sitting eighth in the table with only two wins from eight outings. Their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, particularly after a heartbreaking loss to Lucknow Super Giants, where they fell short by just two runs. With skipper Sanju Samson sidelined due to injury, Riyan Parag will lead the Royals, hoping to inspire a turnaround in their fortunes.
Historically, RCB and RR have faced off 32 times in the IPL, with RCB winning 16 matches and RR claiming victory in 14. The last encounter between the two teams ended in an RCB victory by nine wickets on April 13, 2025, showcasing RCB's dominance in recent matchups.
At the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the head-to-head record is slightly tilted in favor of RR, who have won four out of nine matches played there. The last result at this venue saw RCB narrowly win by seven runs in April 2023. RCB will be looking to leverage their home advantage and shift the momentum in their favor.
In terms of individual performances, Virat Kohli has been a standout player in RCB's history against RR. He holds the record for the most runs scored in RCB vs RR encounters, amassing 826 runs at an average of 33.44. His highest score against RR is 113 not out, and he has consistently been a thorn in the side of the Royals. Alongside Kohli, AB de Villiers has also made significant contributions with 448 runs in these matchups.
On the bowling side, Yuzuvendra Chahal leads the charts with 24 wickets against RR, boasting an impressive economy rate of 6.86. His ability to take crucial wickets has often swung the game in RCB's favor. Harshal Patel and Shreyas Gopal follow closely behind with 17 and 14 wickets, respectively.
As the teams prepare for this important clash, both captains shared their thoughts during the pre-match press conference. Riyan Parag expressed optimism despite the challenges, stating, "It's back to our ethics now; if we can give our 100 percent, the results will take care of themselves. Sanju (Samson) bhai is recovering and hopefully, he will be back soon." Parag also confirmed the inclusion of Fazalhaq Farooqi in place of Maheesh Theekshana, who has been expensive this season.
RCB captain Rajat Patidar echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for good shot selection and adaptability. "We would have loved to bowl first as well; the surface has been tricky and unpredictable this season," he remarked, highlighting the importance of understanding the pitch conditions.
The playing XI for RCB features an unchanged lineup from their last match, with Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, and Rajat Patidar leading the batting charge. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, both of whom have been instrumental in RCB's success this season.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan's batting lineup includes Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shimron Hetmyer, who will be looking to provide stability and firepower at the top. With the stakes high for both teams, fans can expect an exciting contest filled with drama and high-quality cricket.
As the match unfolds, all eyes will be on Kohli, who has had a stellar season so far, including a recent unbeaten 62 runs against RR, showcasing his form and importance to the RCB lineup. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed will be crucial for RCB's chances of success.
With the playoff race heating up, this encounter between RCB and RR is not just another match; it’s a battle for survival for the Royals and a chance for RCB to solidify their position among the top teams in the league. As the teams take to the field, fans will be treated to a spectacle of skill, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of victory.
In conclusion, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams having much to play for. RCB will be eager to secure their first home win of the season, while RR will fight to keep their playoff hopes alive. Who will emerge victorious in this crucial IPL showdown? Only time will tell.
