Wankhede witnessed fireworks, emotions, and a Pandya face-off for the ages, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a thrilling 12-run win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 20 of IPL 2025. While the scoreboard told one story, the emotions on the field told another — a brotherly battle between Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya that ended in dramatic fashion.
🧨 RCB’s Batting Blitz: Kohli Leads, Patidar Explodes
Sent in to bat first, RCB rode on a masterclass from Virat Kohli (67 off 42), who set the tone with elegant strokeplay. Once he departed, Rajat Patidar took charge and stole the show with an explosive 64 off 32 balls, showing no mercy to the MI attack. His fearless approach, especially after the Hardik over, shifted the momentum sharply.
Speaking post-match, Patidar said:
“That was a really amazing match. The way the bowlers showed courage was amazing. Honestly, this award goes to them. Stopping a batting lineup like MI’s on this pitch is tough, so full credit to them.”
“The plan was clear — take the game deep and save Krunal’s over for the last. And the way he bowled that final over was unreal.”
Jitesh Sharma, batting at the death, added vital runs with a quickfire 40 off 19 balls*, finishing the innings at a commanding 221/5. Despite the onslaught, Jasprit Bumrah once again proved his class with a tight spell of 4-0-29-0, offering MI a glimmer of control.
💣 MI’s Response: Tilak & Hardik Nearly Pull Off the Impossible Against RCB
Chasing 222, MI began strong with Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton attacking early. But once RCB’s spinners got into the act, the chase wobbled. Tilak Varma (56 off 29) and Hardik Pandya (42 off 15) then ignited hopes with a blistering counterattack.
Their partnership threatened to take the game away, especially when MI needed 28 runs off the final 12 balls. But then came Josh Hazlewood, who removed Hardik first ball of the 19th over — a game-changer.
Enter Krunal Pandya, who bowled the final over with calm nerves and cold precision, dismissing three batters and sealing the match for Bengaluru.
Post-match, Krunal opened up emotionally:
“The bond that we (Hardik and I) have, we knew only one Pandya was supposed to win today. He batted really well, and I feel for him—but our team won, and that’s what matters.”
“When I came on to bowl, I knew Santner was at the crease, leg side was short, and I’ve played here for over 10 years. Experience had to count.”
Krunal also praised the team atmosphere and youngsters:
“Rajat has been terrific—so calm, doesn’t complicate things. Jitesh too, he’s improved massively. With the gloves, he’s always been exceptional, but now his batting awareness is top-notch.”
🌟 Key Performers
🔴 Royal Challengers Bengaluru ( RCB )
- Virat Kohli – 67 (42)
- Rajat Patidar – 64 (32) – Player of the Match
- Jitesh Sharma – 40* (19)
- Krunal Pandya – 4-0-45-3 (including last over heroics)
🔵 Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Tilak Varma – 56 (29)
- Hardik Pandya – 42 (15)
- Jasprit Bumrah – 4-0-29-0 (economy under pressure)
📊 Final Scorecard ( RCB vs MI)
RCB: 221/5 (Kohli 67, Patidar 64, Jitesh 40*)
MI: 209/9 (Tilak 56, Hardik 42, Krunal 3/45)
✅ RCB won by 12 runs
🧠 Tactical Masterclass, Emotional Aftermath
This wasn’t just another high-scoring IPL game — it was a strategic masterclass and an emotional showdown. RCB held their nerve in crunch moments, while MI paid for letting the game slip in the final overs.
From Virat’s composure, Patidar’s aggression, to Krunal’s clutch final over, RCB showed they are here not just to compete, but to dominate.
🏁 What’s Next?
With this win, RCB climbs up the points table and builds momentum, while MI faces questions around their death bowling and batting depth. One thing’s certain—IPL 2025 is delivering drama, emotion, and world-class cricket, and we’re just getting started!
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