The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) edged past the Mumbai Indians (MI) by 12 runs in a nail-biting encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, in Match 20 of IPL 2025. A stellar all-round performance by RCB, highlighted by Krunal Pandya’s game-changing spell, ensured their victory despite a spirited fightback from MI’s middle order.
Match Summary
- RCB Score: 221/5 (20 overs)
- MI Score: 209/9 (20 overs)
- Result: RCB won by 12 runs
- Player of the Match: Krunal Pandya (4 wickets for 29 runs)
RCB’s Batting Brilliance
RCB set a formidable target of 221, thanks to explosive knocks from Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli. Patidar smashed a quickfire 64 off just 32 balls, while Kohli anchored the innings with a classy 67 off 45 balls. Devdutt Padikkal (35 off 21) and Liam Livingstone (30 off 17) also chipped in with valuable contributions.
The highlight of RCB’s innings was their ability to accelerate in the death overs, scoring 70 runs in the last five overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult were economical for MI but lacked support from the other bowlers.
MI’s Spirited Chase
Chasing a daunting total, MI started poorly, losing opener Will Jacks early. However, Tilak Varma played a sensational knock of 56 off just 29 balls, supported by Hardik Pandya’s explosive cameo of 42 off 15 balls. Suryakumar Yadav (38 off 22) also kept MI in the hunt.
Despite their efforts, Krunal Pandya’s brilliant death-over bowling turned the game on its head. He dismissed key batters Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, and Naman Dhir in quick succession during the penultimate over, conceding only six runs and effectively sealing the game for RCB.
Key Performances
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Virat Kohli: 67 (45), including five boundaries and three sixes.
- Rajat Patidar: 64 (32), striking at a blistering rate of 200.
- Krunal Pandya: Bowling figures of 4/29 in four overs.
Mumbai Indians
- Tilak Varma: Top-scored with a quickfire 56 (29).
- Hardik Pandya: A fiery knock of 42 (15), including four sixes.
- Jasprit Bumrah: Economical with figures of 1/28 in four overs.
Turning Point
The decisive moment came in the 19th over when Krunal Pandya dismissed three MI batters. With MI needing just 19 runs from two overs and Hardik still at the crease, Krunal’s spell derailed their momentum and ensured RCB’s victory.
Stats and Records
- Virat Kohli’s half-century was his third of the season, solidifying his position as one of IPL’s leading run-scorers.
- Krunal Pandya’s four-wicket haul is his best bowling performance in IPL history.
- This win marked RCB’s third victory of IPL 2025, moving them up to fourth place on the points table.
Post-Match Analysis
RCB’s Strengths:
- Exceptional batting depth with contributions from multiple players.
- Effective death bowling led by Krunal Pandya and Josh Hazlewood.
MI’s Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent middle-order performances apart from Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya.
- Lack of support for Bumrah and Boult in the bowling department.
What’s Next?
RCB will look to build on this momentum as they face Sunrisers Hyderabad next. Meanwhile, MI must regroup quickly to address their bowling concerns before their clash against Chennai Super Kings.
This thrilling encounter showcased why IPL remains cricket’s most exciting league, with both teams delivering high-octane performances under pressure.
