The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced off against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 20th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on Monday, April 7, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The match was marked by a thrilling batting performance from RCB, who posted a formidable total of 221 runs, setting the stage for a riveting chase from MI.
RCB, under the leadership of new captain Rajat Patidar, showcased their batting prowess at the Wankhede, a venue known for its high-scoring matches. The innings was highlighted by a stellar performance from Virat Kohli, who scored 67 runs off 42 balls. Patidar himself contributed significantly, smashing 64 runs off just 32 deliveries, while Jitesh Sharma added a quickfire 40 runs off 19 balls, propelling RCB to a total that could potentially be challenging for MI to chase down.
This match is particularly significant as it presents MI with a chance to chase down the highest total ever at Wankhede Stadium. The current record for the highest successful chase at the venue stands at 213 runs, achieved by MI against the Rajasthan Royals in 2023. However, the highest total ever scored in the second innings at Wankhede is 223, also by MI, in a match that unfortunately ended in defeat.
As the match unfolded, RCB's innings began with a solid foundation, thanks to Kohli and Patidar's explosive start. Kohli's experience shone through as he struck boundaries at will, while Patidar's aggressive approach kept the scoreboard ticking. The duo's partnership set the tone for a high total, and RCB capitalized on the batting-friendly conditions at the Wankhede.
In IPL history, RCB has had a long-standing rivalry with MI, dating back to 2008. Over the years, these two teams have delivered some unforgettable encounters, with RCB often being known for their star-studded batting lineup. In fact, RCB's highest total against MI was a staggering 235 runs, scored in 2015, where AB de Villiers and Kohli put on a partnership for the ages.
Looking back at previous encounters, RCB's five highest totals against MI include:
1. RCB 235/1, Wankhede 2015: A memorable match where Kohli and de Villiers shared an unbeaten partnership of 215 runs, leading RCB to a 39-run victory.
2. RCB 221/5, Wankhede 2025: The current match, showcasing a strong batting display from RCB.
3. RCB 201/7, Dubai 2020: Saw RCB set a challenging target, which ended in a thrilling Super Over victory.
4. RCB 199/6, Wankhede 2023: Despite a solid score, RCB fell short as MI chased it down with ease.
5. RCB 196/8, Wankhede 2024: Another high-scoring match where RCB's efforts were in vain against MI's batting firepower.
The rivalry has seen both teams at their best, with MI often coming out on top in crucial encounters. As the match progresses, MI will need to dig deep to chase down RCB's total and maintain their reputation as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
Historically, Wankhede Stadium has been a fortress for MI, who have played 86 matches there, winning 52 and losing 33, with a win percentage of 60.4%. The pitch at Wankhede is known for being batting-friendly, which makes high scores common. The average first-innings score at the venue is around 170, but recent seasons have seen that number rise, with an average first-innings winning score since 2023 at 209 runs.
As the game continues, all eyes will be on MI's batting lineup, including their captain Rohit Sharma, who has historically performed well at Wankhede. Sharma's record against RCB includes a significant number of runs, but he will need to find form quickly as MI seeks to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing start to the season.
Both teams entered this match after losses in their previous outings, with MI falling to Lucknow and RCB succumbing to the Gujarat Titans. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere at Wankhede is electric as fans cheer for their respective teams.
As the match unfolds, it remains to be seen whether MI can chase down this challenging total and set a new record for the highest successful chase at Wankhede. With the batting-friendly conditions and a history of high-scoring matches, the stage is set for what promises to be an exciting finish.
In conclusion, the IPL 2025 clash between RCB and MI is not just another match; it's a continuation of a storied rivalry filled with thrilling moments and unforgettable performances. With RCB's explosive batting on display and MI's determination to bounce back, fans can expect a nail-biting contest that could go down to the wire.
