Facing what seemed like an insurmountable mountain of runs, Royal Challengers Bangalore scripted history by achieving their highest-ever chase to secure a playoff berth in IPL 2025. The monumental RCB record chase of 228 runs against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium not only demonstrated the team’s batting prowess but also knocked Gujarat Titans out of contention, propelling Bangalore into the qualifiers.
Lucknow, already eliminated from playoff contention, had hoped to exit the tournament with pride after posting a mammoth 227/3. Captain Rishabh Pant’s breathtaking 118* (61 balls), featuring 11 fours and 8 sixes, combined with Mitchell Marsh’s blistering 67 (37) to set up what appeared to be a winning total. The target gained extra significance as Bangalore had never before successfully chased such a high score, despite having accomplished 200-plus run chases twice in their history.
The RCB record chase began aggressively with Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, and Rajat Patidar providing a solid foundation. However, it was captain Jitesh Sharma who transformed the impossible into reality with a whirlwind 85 off just 33 deliveries, including 8 fours and 6 sixes. Mayank Agarwal’s steady 41* provided crucial support as Bangalore reached 230/4 in 18.4 overs, completing the chase with 8 balls to spare.
This RCB record chase marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, securing their playoff position while eliminating Gujarat Titans from contention. The victory demonstrates Bangalore’s evolution as a chasing team, overcoming their historical struggles with high targets. Sharma’s captain’s knock will be remembered as one of the most impactful innings in RCB’s history, coming when the team needed it most.
For Lucknow, the match proved bittersweet as Pant’s heroic century went in vain due to their bowling unit’s inability to defend the massive total. The Super Giants finish their campaign seventh in the standings, while Bangalore advances to the qualifiers with momentum from this record-breaking performance.
The RCB record chase not only keeps their championship hopes alive but also serves as a statement to other playoff contenders. Bangalore’s ability to conquer their Everest-like target suggests they enter the knockout stages as dangerous opponents capable of chasing down any total. As the IPL moves into its decisive phase, this match will be remembered as one where records tumbled and playoff fortunes dramatically shifted in a single evening of explosive T20 cricket.
Go To Main Page
