In a shocking display of batting frailty, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) crumbled against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a rain-curtailed match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 18, 2025. The team managed to score only 95 runs for 9 wickets in a 14-over game, marking one of their lowest totals in Indian Premier League (IPL) history.
RCB's innings began disastrously, with opener Philip Salt dismissed for just 4 runs. Star batter Virat Kohli followed soon after, scoring a mere 1 run off 3 balls. Captain Rajat Patidar attempted to stabilize the innings with a brief resistance, scoring 23 runs off 18 balls. However, the rest of the batting lineup failed to make significant contributions, leading to a dismal total.
Tim David emerged as the lone bright spot for RCB, remaining unbeaten on 50 runs, which included several explosive sixes in the final overs. His efforts, however, were insufficient to lift the team from the depths of despair brought on by the PBKS bowlers, who executed a disciplined and relentless performance.
Shreyas Iyer, captain of PBKS, won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that proved to be a masterstroke as wickets fell at regular intervals. The RCB batting lineup, which has seen its fair share of struggles in past seasons, was unable to cope with the pressure exerted by PBKS's bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen, who both played pivotal roles in dismantling the RCB batting order.
RCB's total of 95 runs now ranks as the joint-38th lowest score in IPL history, joining a notorious list of batting collapses over the years. This performance echoes memories of their previous lowest total of 49 runs, achieved against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2017, which remains the lowest score in IPL history.
In that infamous match, RCB was bowled out for just 49 runs in 9.4 overs at Eden Gardens, a record that still haunts the franchise. The top scorer in that match was Kedar Jadhav, who managed only 9 runs, while Nathan Coulter-Nile, Chris Woakes, and Colin de Grandhomme wreaked havoc with the ball, each taking three wickets.
RCB's struggle with low scores isn't just a recent phenomenon. They have experienced several batting failures over the years, including totals of 68 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2022, and 70 runs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2019. The team's inability to build a solid batting foundation has been a recurring issue, leading to questions about their batting depth and resilience.
As fans reflect on the disheartening performance against PBKS, they are reminded of the psychological burden that the record of 49 runs carries. Teams often recall this collapse when facing tricky chases, using it as a benchmark for their bowling strategies. The infamous clip of RCB's 49 all out resurfaces every IPL season, serving as a reminder of how quickly a T20 match can turn from promising to disastrous.
Despite the setback, RCB fans are hopeful that their team can bounce back and learn from this experience. The franchise has made significant strides since that 2017 collapse, with a roster that boasts a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. However, the shadow of their past failures looms large, and fans will be eager to see how the team responds in their upcoming matches.
RCB's performance against PBKS raises critical questions about their batting strategy and mental fortitude. As they prepare for future challenges, the team must focus on building partnerships and maintaining composure under pressure. The IPL is notorious for its unpredictability, and teams must adapt quickly to changing conditions and opposition tactics.
Looking ahead, RCB will need to regroup and analyze their batting approach. The franchise has the potential to compete at the highest level, but they must address the issues that have plagued their batting lineup. With the IPL season still in its early stages, there is ample opportunity for RCB to turn their fortunes around.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see if RCB can overcome their batting woes and make a strong push for the playoffs. The team has the talent and resources to succeed, but it will require a collective effort from every player to rise above the challenges they face.
In conclusion, RCB's dismal performance against PBKS serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of T20 cricket. The franchise's record of low scores, particularly the infamous 49 all out, continues to haunt them, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and resilience. As the season unfolds, RCB fans remain hopeful for a turnaround, eager to witness their team rise from the ashes of past failures.
