Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Aussie pacer Josh Hazlewood has never lost a final match in his career dating back to U19 days and the same continued on June 3 when RCB lifted its maiden IPL trophy. The Bengaluru-based franchise beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) on June 3 in IPL 2025 Final and Hazlewood did play a huge part in the campaign - taking 22 wickets to finish third on the most wickets table.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-kohlis-wholesome-moment-with-shreyas-iyer-and-his-father-after-winning-maiden-ipl-trophy-1749115318931">Kohli's WHOLESOME moment with Shreyas Iyer and his father after winning maiden IPL trophy</a>Before the IPL 2025 win, Hazlewood has won eight more final across Test, ODI and T20 formats. Here's the list of finals won by Hazlewood:<ul><li>2010 U19 World Cup Final for Australia vs Pakistan – Player of the Match with 4/30</li><li>2012 CLT20 Final with Sydney Sixers vs Highveld Lions</li><li>2015 ODI World Cup Final with Australia vs New Zealand</li><li>2020 Big Bash League Final with Sydney Sixers (not part of playing XI)</li><li>2021 IPL Final with CSK vs KKR</li><li>2021 T20 World Cup Final with Australia s New Zealand</li><li>2023 ODI World Cup Final with Australia vs India</li><li>2023 WTC Final with Australia vs India</li><li>2025 IPL Final with RCB vs PBKS</li></ul>Hazlewood will next be seen in World Test Championship (WTC) Final for Australia against South Africa in the UK. The WTC Final 2025 starts June 11 and Australia would be hoping to retain their trophy against South Africa. They had won last time by beating India.Hazlewood is an integral part of Australia's pace trio which also includes Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Along with spinner Nathan Lyon, the four bowlers make one of the bowling attacks in the world.In current WTC cycle of 2023-25 which will culminate with the final, Hazlewood has taken 57 wickets in 13 Tests at an economy of 3.12 and an average of 19.68. He also has taken three five-wicket hauls with a best of 5/31.&nbsp;

Hazlewood will next be seen in World Test Championship (WTC) Final for Australia against South Africa in the UK. The WTC Final 2025 starts June 11 and Australia would be hoping to retain their trophy against South Africa. They had won last time by beating India.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) Aussie pacer Josh Hazlewood has never lost a final match in his career dating back to U19 days and the same continued on June 3 when RCB lifted its maiden IPL trophy. The Bengaluru-based franchise beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) on June 3 in IPL 2025 Final and Hazlewood did play a huge part in the campaign - taking 22 wickets to finish third on the most wickets table. Also Watch - Kohli's WHOLESOME moment with Shreyas Iyer and his father after winning maiden IPL trophy Before the IPL 2025 win, Hazlewood has won eight more final across Test, ODI and T20 formats. Here's the list of finals won by Hazlewood: 2010 U19 World Cup Final for Australia vs Pakistan – Player of the Match with 4/30 2012 CLT20 Final with Sydney Sixers vs Highveld Lions 2015 ODI World Cup Final with Australia vs New Zealand 2020 Big Bash League Final with Sydney Sixers (not part of playing XI) 2021 IPL Final with CSK vs KKR 2021 T20 World Cup Final with Australia s New Zealand 2023 ODI World Cup Final with Australia vs India 2023 WTC Final with Australia vs India 2025 IPL Final with RCB vs PBKS Hazlewood will next be seen in World Test Championship (WTC) Final for Australia against South Africa in the UK. The WTC Final 2025 starts June 11 and Australia would be hoping to retain their trophy against South Africa. They had won last time by beating India. Hazlewood is an integral part of Australia's pace trio which also includes Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Along with spinner Nathan Lyon, the four bowlers make one of the bowling attacks in the world. In current WTC cycle of 2023-25 which will culminate with the final, Hazlewood has taken 57 wickets in 13 Tests at an economy of 3.12 and an average of 19.68. He also has taken three five-wicket hauls with a best of 5/31.

Hazlewood will next be seen in World Test Championship (WTC) Final for Australia against South Africa in the UK. The WTC Final 2025 starts June 11 and Australia would be hoping to retain their trophy against South Africa. They had won last time by beating India.

9 out of 9: Hazlewood continues final winning streak with RCB's maiden IPL title. Next stop - WTC 2025 Final vs South Africa

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has blamed overcrowding for the tragic stampede that took place outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium during celebrations for Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory. According to officials, an unexpected crowd of nearly two to three lakh people gathered at the venue, far exceeding the stadium’s 35,000 seating capacity.The Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people lost their lives in the stampede and 33 others were seriously injured. Speaking at a press conference, he described the incident as a major tragedy.“This was a major tragedy. People have died in a stampede. 11 lives have been lost, and 33 others are seriously injured. Around 14 people have received treatment at the outpatient facility. I visited the hospital. Such an incident should never have happened, and the government deeply regrets it,” he said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-victory-parade-stampede-news-ipl-2025-winner-issues-first-statement-after-tragic-stampede-kills-11-1749054113905">RCB victory parade stampede | IPL 2025 winner issues first statement after tragic&nbsp;stampede kills 11</a><h2>Government caught off guard by unexpected crowd</h2>Siddaramaiah admitted that neither the Karnataka government nor the Cricket Association expected such a massive turnout.“The turnout was far beyond what we anticipated. In front of Vidhana Soudha, nearly one lakh people had gathered, but there were no incidents there. However, at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, there were casualties. No one, neither the Cricket Association nor the government, expected this, as the stadium has a seating capacity of about 35,000. We assumed only a slightly larger crowd would show up. But almost two to three lakh people gathered,” he explained.<h2>Most victims were young; compensation announced</h2>The Chief Minister said that most of those who died were young. He announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for each of the victims’ families and has ordered a magisterial probe to investigate how the situation spiralled out of control.“I do not want to play politics in this case. I don’t want to play politics. That is why, even though there was an unexpected crowd, we have ordered a magisterial probe. I don’t want to defend the incident. I don’t want to play politics. Let us see the magisterial report. I will give 15 days for this report,” he said.<h2>Prime Minister Modi calls incident ‘heart-rending’</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences and expressed his sadness over the tragedy.“The mishap in Bengaluru is absolutely heartrending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery,” he wrote on X.

The Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people lost their lives in the stampede and 33 others were seriously injured. Speaking at a press conference, he described the incident as a major tragedy.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has blamed overcrowding for the tragic stampede that took place outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium during celebrations for Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory. According to officials, an unexpected crowd of nearly two to three lakh people gathered at the venue, far exceeding the stadium’s 35,000 seating capacity. The Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people lost their lives in the stampede and 33 others were seriously injured. Speaking at a press conference, he described the incident as a major tragedy. “This was a major tragedy. People have died in a stampede. 11 lives have been lost, and 33 others are seriously injured. Around 14 people have received treatment at the outpatient facility. I visited the hospital. Such an incident should never have happened, and the government deeply regrets it,” he said. Also read: RCB victory parade stampede | IPL 2025 winner issues first statement after tragic stampede kills 11 Government caught off guard by unexpected crowd Siddaramaiah admitted that neither the Karnataka government nor the Cricket Association expected such a massive turnout. “The turnout was far beyond what we anticipated. In front of Vidhana Soudha, nearly one lakh people had gathered, but there were no incidents there. However, at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, there were casualties. No one, neither the Cricket Association nor the government, expected this, as the stadium has a seating capacity of about 35,000. We assumed only a slightly larger crowd would show up. But almost two to three lakh people gathered,” he explained. Most victims were young; compensation announced The Chief Minister said that most of those who died were young. He announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for each of the victims’ families and has ordered a magisterial probe to investigate how the situation spiralled out of control. “I do not want to play politics in this case. I don’t want to play politics. That is why, even though there was an unexpected crowd, we have ordered a magisterial probe. I don’t want to defend the incident. I don’t want to play politics. Let us see the magisterial report. I will give 15 days for this report,” he said. Prime Minister Modi calls incident ‘heart-rending’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences and expressed his sadness over the tragedy. “The mishap in Bengaluru is absolutely heartrending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery,” he wrote on X.

The Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people lost their lives in the stampede and 33 others were seriously injured. Speaking at a press conference, he described the incident as a major tragedy.

What triggered RCB victory parade stampede? Karnataka CM reveals the reasons behind deadly tragedy that killed 11, injured 33

At least 11 people died and 33 were injured after a tragic stampede occurred in the late afternoon on Wednesday as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans gathered in large numbers to celebrate the title win outside RCB's home ground - Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.Russian President Vladimir Putin ruled out a full ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that any such pause would allow Ukraine to strengthen its forces and prepare for further attacks.Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-victory-parade-stampede-news-ipl-2025-winner-issues-first-statement-after-tragic-stampede-kills-11-1749054113905">RCB victory parade stampede | IPL 2025 winner issues first statement after tragic stampede kills 11</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749054446635.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="RCB victory parade stampede | IPL 2025 winner issues first statement after tragic&nbsp;stampede kills 11"></figure>The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) issued a statement on the tragic stampede during their maiden IPL trophy celebration which left at least 11 people dead and 33 injured. The incident took place in late afternoon on Wednesday (June 4) as fans gathered in large numbers to celebrate the title win outside RCB's home ground - Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-terrorist-acts-putin-rejects-full-ceasefire-with-ukraine-here-s-the-real-reason-why-1749052688290">'Terrorist acts': Putin rejects full ceasefire with Ukraine - Here's the REAL reason why</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749052870626.webp?rect=(0,107,639,480)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Terrorist acts': Putin rejects full ceasefire with Ukraine - Here's the&nbsp;REAL&nbsp;reason&nbsp;why"></figure>Russian President Vladimir Putin seemingly ruled out a full ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that any such pause would allow Kyiv to strengthen its forces and prepare for further attacks. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-s-operation-spiderweb-unique-footage-out-watch-how-kyiv-damaged-41-russian-strategic-military-aircraft-1749052554072">Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb 'unique footage' OUT! Watch how Kyiv damaged 41 Russian strategic military aircraft</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749053061029.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb 'unique footage' OUT! Watch how Kyiv damaged 41 Russian strategic military aircraft"></figure>Days after Ukraine launched Operation Spiderweb, Kyiv's Defence Ministry shared a video on social media, releasing unique footage of the operation. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-warning-why-us-is-asking-thousands-of-people-to-stay-indoor-check-list-of-states-under-alert-1749046770283">RED WARNING! Why US is asking thousands of people to 'stay indoor'? Check list of states under alert</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749047301245.jpg?rect=(0,203,3195,2396)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="RED WARNING! Why US is asking thousands of people to 'stay indoor'? Check list of states under alert"></figure>The United States has issued an advisory for hundreds of thousands of people, living in four states, to "stay indoors" as air quality continues to engulf the Midwest. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-is-making-a-fool-of-itself-trump-trolled-in-china-with-ai-videos-as-democrats-roll-out-trump-always-chickens-out-truck-in-capitol-hill-1749040922271">'US is making fool of itself': Trump trolled in China with AI videos as Democrats roll out 'Trump Always Chickens Out' truck in Capitol Hill</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749041142735.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'US is making fool of itself': Trump trolled in China with AI videos as Democrats roll out 'Trump Always Chickens Out' truck in Capitol Hill"></figure>US President Donald Trump is facing mounting criticism both at home and abroad over his tariff policies and ongoing trade war with China. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rcb-victory-parade-stampede-pm-modi-reacts-as-rcb-s-first-ipl-win-turns-horrific-in-bengaluru-after-stampede-kills-at-least-11-1749046819812">'Tragic, heartrending': PM Modi reacts as RCB's first IPL win turns horrific in Bengaluru after stampede kills at least 11</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749047311102.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Tragic, heartrending': PM Modi reacts as RCB's first IPL win turns horrific in Bengaluru after stampede kills&nbsp;at&nbsp;least&nbsp;11"></figure>Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences over the deadly stampede in Bengaluru on Wednesday (June 4) evening, which happened during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) first-ever IPL title win. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-do-not-travel-us-issues-new-ukraine-travel-warning-as-russian-attacks-escalate-read-the-full-advisory-here-1749054828095">'Do NOT travel': US issues new Ukraine travel warning as Russian attacks escalate – Read the full advisory here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749055794126.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Do NOT travel': US issues new Ukraine travel warning as Russian attacks escalate – Read the full advisory here"></figure>The United States Embassy in Ukraine has issued a fresh warning for its citizens, urging them to avoid travel to Ukraine due to a rise in Russian missile and drone attacks. The alert, released on Wednesday (4 June), calls on Americans already in the country to remain cautious and prepared for sudden airstrikes. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-more-pride-month-in-us-trump-has-no-plans-to-issue-pride-month-proclamation-1749055039536">No more Pride Month in US? Trump has 'no plans' to issue Pride Month proclamation</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749055538273.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="No more Pride Month in US? Trump has 'no plans' to issue Pride Month proclamation"></figure>US President Donald Trump has "no plans" to issue a proclamation recognising June as Pride Month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dead-man-walking-73-year-old-california-man-arrested-for-threatening-to-kill-trump-in-series-of-sick-posts-1749041535657">'Dead man walking': 73-year-old California man arrested for threatening to kill Trump in series of sick posts</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749041773218.jpg?rect=(0,169,2662,1997)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Dead man walking': 73-year-old California man arrested for threatening to kill Trump in series of sick posts"></figure>A California man pleaded not guilty to accusations of attempting to kill US President Donald Trump after the 2024 presidential elections. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/stolen-abhishek-banerjee-movie-review-hindi-film-release-1749033517529">Stolen review: A taut thriller that never lets you breathe easy</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250604/image-1749034021510.png?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Stolen review: A taut thriller that never lets you breathe easy"></figure>At a time when 'Pan-India' movies with larger-than-life action heroes in the lead are ruling the box office, debutant director Karan Tejpal's film Stolen seems like an unusual thriller. It has two brothers helping a woman they have just met, find her missing baby, amid the sand dunes and by lanes of Rajasthan, as locals, cops, and thugs chase them and try to blame them for a crime they have not committed. The film, all of 90 minutes, is one of the slickest and edgy thrillers that Indian cinema has produced in recent years. There is not a single dull moment in this film, and an excellent screenplay backed by great performances by the three leads- makes Stolen a must-watch.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin ruled out a full ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that any such pause would allow Ukraine to strengthen its forces and prepare for further attacks.

At least 11 people died and 33 were injured after a tragic stampede occurred in the late afternoon on Wednesday as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans gathered in large numbers to celebrate the title win outside RCB's home ground - Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Russian President Vladimir Putin ruled out a full ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that any such pause would allow Ukraine to strengthen its forces and prepare for further attacks. Click on the headlines to read more RCB victory parade stampede | IPL 2025 winner issues first statement after tragic stampede kills 11 The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) issued a statement on the tragic stampede during their maiden IPL trophy celebration which left at least 11 people dead and 33 injured. The incident took place in late afternoon on Wednesday (June 4) as fans gathered in large numbers to celebrate the title win outside RCB's home ground - Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. 'Terrorist acts': Putin rejects full ceasefire with Ukraine - Here's the REAL reason why Russian President Vladimir Putin seemingly ruled out a full ceasefire in Ukraine, saying that any such pause would allow Kyiv to strengthen its forces and prepare for further attacks. Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb 'unique footage' OUT! Watch how Kyiv damaged 41 Russian strategic military aircraft Days after Ukraine launched Operation Spiderweb, Kyiv's Defence Ministry shared a video on social media, releasing unique footage of the operation. RED WARNING! Why US is asking thousands of people to 'stay indoor'? Check list of states under alert The United States has issued an advisory for hundreds of thousands of people, living in four states, to "stay indoors" as air quality continues to engulf the Midwest. 'US is making fool of itself': Trump trolled in China with AI videos as Democrats roll out 'Trump Always Chickens Out' truck in Capitol Hill US President Donald Trump is facing mounting criticism both at home and abroad over his tariff policies and ongoing trade war with China. 'Tragic, heartrending': PM Modi reacts as RCB's first IPL win turns horrific in Bengaluru after stampede kills at least 11 Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences over the deadly stampede in Bengaluru on Wednesday (June 4) evening, which happened during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) first-ever IPL title win. 'Do NOT travel': US issues new Ukraine travel warning as Russian attacks escalate – Read the full advisory here The United States Embassy in Ukraine has issued a fresh warning for its citizens, urging them to avoid travel to Ukraine due to a rise in Russian missile and drone attacks. The alert, released on Wednesday (4 June), calls on Americans already in the country to remain cautious and prepared for sudden airstrikes. No more Pride Month in US? Trump has 'no plans' to issue Pride Month proclamation US President Donald Trump has "no plans" to issue a proclamation recognising June as Pride Month, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said. 'Dead man walking': 73-year-old California man arrested for threatening to kill Trump in series of sick posts A California man pleaded not guilty to accusations of attempting to kill US President Donald Trump after the 2024 presidential elections. Stolen review: A taut thriller that never lets you breathe easy At a time when 'Pan-India' movies with larger-than-life action heroes in the lead are ruling the box office, debutant director Karan Tejpal's film Stolen seems like an unusual thriller. It has two brothers helping a woman they have just met, find her missing baby, amid the sand dunes and by lanes of Rajasthan, as locals, cops, and thugs chase them and try to blame them for a crime they have not committed. The film, all of 90 minutes, is one of the slickest and edgy thrillers that Indian cinema has produced in recent years. There is not a single dull moment in this film, and an excellent screenplay backed by great performances by the three leads- makes Stolen a must-watch.

Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.

Top 10 world news: RCB victory parade stampede; Putin rejects full ceasefire with Ukraine, and more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences over the deadly stampede in Bengaluru on Wednesday (June 4) evening, which happened during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) first-ever IPL title win.“The mishap in Bengaluru is absolutely heartrending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery,” PM Modi said.<h2>RCB’s IPL victory parade ends in chaos</h2>The stampede took place outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s historic IPL win against Punjab Kings.According to WION’s correspondent Siddhant, at least 11 people are feared dead. Several media reports confirmed multiple casualties and injuries. Among the injured was a young girl who fainted during the chaos.The injured were taken to Bowring Hospital, Vydehi Superspeciality Hospital on Vittal Mallya Road, and Vikram Manipal Hospital. Reports said six victims were declared dead at Bowring, four at Vydehi, and one at Vikram Manipal.Deputy CM apologises for crowd control failureKarnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister apologised for the situation, stating the crowd was too large to manage.“I think this is not a controllable crowd. I apologise to all the people of Bengaluru and Karnataka, we wanted to take a procession, but the crowd is uncontrollable,” he said.To control the situation, Karnataka police used mild force outside the stadium, as reported by news agency PTI. Meanwhile, metro services at Cubbon Park and Vidhana Soudha stations were suspended as a precautionary&nbsp;measure.

The stampede took place outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s historic IPL win against Punjab Kings.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences over the deadly stampede in Bengaluru on Wednesday (June 4) evening, which happened during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) first-ever IPL title win. “The mishap in Bengaluru is absolutely heartrending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery,” PM Modi said. RCB’s IPL victory parade ends in chaos The stampede took place outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s historic IPL win against Punjab Kings. According to WION’s correspondent Siddhant, at least 11 people are feared dead. Several media reports confirmed multiple casualties and injuries. Among the injured was a young girl who fainted during the chaos. The injured were taken to Bowring Hospital, Vydehi Superspeciality Hospital on Vittal Mallya Road, and Vikram Manipal Hospital. Reports said six victims were declared dead at Bowring, four at Vydehi, and one at Vikram Manipal. Deputy CM apologises for crowd control failure Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister apologised for the situation, stating the crowd was too large to manage. “I think this is not a controllable crowd. I apologise to all the people of Bengaluru and Karnataka, we wanted to take a procession, but the crowd is uncontrollable,” he said. To control the situation, Karnataka police used mild force outside the stadium, as reported by news agency PTI. Meanwhile, metro services at Cubbon Park and Vidhana Soudha stations were suspended as a precautionary measure.

The stampede took place outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s historic IPL win against Punjab Kings.

'Tragic, heartrending': PM Modi reacts as RCB's first IPL win turns horrific in Bengaluru after stampede kills at least 11

After RCB won their maiden IPL title, there was a roller-coaster of emotions for RCB. Let's have a glance at their title winning celebration.

Tears, triumph and hugs: RCB’s emotional celebration after historic IPL 2025 win

Virat Kohli finally managed to get his hands on IPL trophy after 18 long years as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2025 season final on Tuesday (June 3). RCB had posted a below par 190 but PBKS fumbled in the chase during the middle over and lost the title showdown by just six runs.Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram and here's what he wrote:.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-this-moment-is-right-up-there-but-five-levels-below-test-cricket-kohli-after-winning-ipl-1748977437514">IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reflects after lifting maiden title as RCB beat Punjab Kings by six runs in final</a>"This team made the dream possible , a season I’ll never ever forget. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride over the last 2.5 months. This one is for the fans of RCB who never ever left our side in the worst of times. This one is for all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment. This is for every inch of effort left on the field playing for this team. As far as the ipl trophy is concerned- you’ve made me wait 18 years to be able to lift you and celebrate my friend, but it’s been absolutely worth the wait."Kohli is the only person to have played for the same franchise since the inception of the league in 2008 but hadn't won it before June 3.The batter, who is no longer the skipper of the side, did play his part with the bat and ended up as RCB's highest scorer of the season including the final. Kohli's 657 runs are the third most in IPL 2025 behind MI's Suryakumar Yadav (717) and GT's Sai Sudharsan (759). In the final, Kohli top scored with 43 for Bengaluru.This was RCB's fourth IPL final and first in nine years. As for Punjab, they have only been in the final twice including this one and have lost on both occasions.&nbsp;

Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram.

Virat Kohli finally managed to get his hands on IPL trophy after 18 long years as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2025 season final on Tuesday (June 3). RCB had posted a below par 190 but PBKS fumbled in the chase during the middle over and lost the title showdown by just six runs. Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram and here's what he wrote:. Also Read - IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reflects after lifting maiden title as RCB beat Punjab Kings by six runs in final "This team made the dream possible , a season I’ll never ever forget. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride over the last 2.5 months. This one is for the fans of RCB who never ever left our side in the worst of times. This one is for all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment. This is for every inch of effort left on the field playing for this team. As far as the ipl trophy is concerned- you’ve made me wait 18 years to be able to lift you and celebrate my friend, but it’s been absolutely worth the wait." Kohli is the only person to have played for the same franchise since the inception of the league in 2008 but hadn't won it before June 3. The batter, who is no longer the skipper of the side, did play his part with the bat and ended up as RCB's highest scorer of the season including the final. Kohli's 657 runs are the third most in IPL 2025 behind MI's Suryakumar Yadav (717) and GT's Sai Sudharsan (759). In the final, Kohli top scored with 43 for Bengaluru. This was RCB's fourth IPL final and first in nine years. As for Punjab, they have only been in the final twice including this one and have lost on both occasions.

Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram.

'For all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment': Kohli's emotional post after winning maiden IPL title melts down internet

In a tournament built on drama and dreams, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 delivered its most emotional finale yet. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally lifted the coveted trophy. After 18 seasons of heartbreak, near-glory, and undying hope, the wait ended and at the centre of it all was Virat Kohli, the man who has poured his soul, sweat, and spirit into the red and gold.Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more. Tuesday night delivered a beautiful victory for all the King's fans. For 18 seasons, the IPL trophy evaded Virat Kohli. It has dodged his determination, outlasted his passion, and refused to bend to his will.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-we-have-to-be-here-and-win-the-trophy-next-year-says-pbks-skipper-shreyas-iyer-1748979897617">IPL 2025 | ‘We have to be here and win the trophy next year’, says PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer</a>RCB, long defined by flair without finish, found balance and brilliance this season. They finally became more than a collection of stars. The RCB innings started with Kohli playing cautiously, a very unlike Kohli, the murmurs grew louder in drawing rooms and even the commentators questioned Kohli's tactics. But in the end Kohli's 43 of 35 balls proved to be the right approach to lay the foundation of RCB's total.With 190 to chase Punjab Kings had a brisk start. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh gave the Kings a good start. Next came Josh Inglis who set the Ahmedabad stadium on fire with four sixes. But Krunal Pandya produced another beauty to claim Inglish after Singh. All eyes were set on the PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, but he lasted only two balls. &nbsp;After that, the match went RCB's way. It was the raw courage of Shashank Singh who tried to defy the inevitable, he struck six sixes in his scintillating innings of 61 runs of only 30 balls. Punjab came just six runs short but walked away with pride.RCB fans, who waited with aching hearts and painted faces for nearly two decades, could hardly breathe. The agony of 2016, the collapses, the eliminations all haunted this night. But as the final over arrived, all that stood between RCB and destiny was Punjab’s fearless fight.Then, it happened.As the final ball was bowled and the last Punjab hope vanished into the night, Virat Kohli dropped to his knees. No roar. No leap. Just stillness. Head bowed, eyes closed. Eighteen years of carrying a city’s hope flowed into the earth beneath him. Not just the Narendra Modi Stadium the entire country erupted. Firecrackers lit the sky from Kolkata to Delhi, from Mumbai to Bengaluru. This wasn’t just RCB’s win. It was India’s collective victory. Every cricket fan erupts in euphoria as the King has got the only trophy eluding his cabinet.In the post-match presentation, Kohli said, “I’ve given my youth to this team. And tonight, it gave something priceless back.” He also reminded youngsters, “IPL is beautiful, but never forget Test cricket; that’s where real character is built.”After clinching victory and thanking his teammates, Kohli ran towards his lady love, Anushka Sharma, his strength and calm. The one who saw the struggle behind the smiles. The one who always believed.And now, Bengaluru believes too. The drought is over. The dream, fulfilled. RCB champions at last. "Ee Sala Cup Namde" (This year, the cup is ours) The vow has been fulfilled.

Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more.

In a tournament built on drama and dreams, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 delivered its most emotional finale yet. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally lifted the coveted trophy. After 18 seasons of heartbreak, near-glory, and undying hope, the wait ended and at the centre of it all was Virat Kohli, the man who has poured his soul, sweat, and spirit into the red and gold. Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more. Tuesday night delivered a beautiful victory for all the King's fans. For 18 seasons, the IPL trophy evaded Virat Kohli. It has dodged his determination, outlasted his passion, and refused to bend to his will. Also Read - IPL 2025 | ‘We have to be here and win the trophy next year’, says PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer RCB, long defined by flair without finish, found balance and brilliance this season. They finally became more than a collection of stars. The RCB innings started with Kohli playing cautiously, a very unlike Kohli, the murmurs grew louder in drawing rooms and even the commentators questioned Kohli's tactics. But in the end Kohli's 43 of 35 balls proved to be the right approach to lay the foundation of RCB's total. With 190 to chase Punjab Kings had a brisk start. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh gave the Kings a good start. Next came Josh Inglis who set the Ahmedabad stadium on fire with four sixes. But Krunal Pandya produced another beauty to claim Inglish after Singh. All eyes were set on the PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, but he lasted only two balls. After that, the match went RCB's way. It was the raw courage of Shashank Singh who tried to defy the inevitable, he struck six sixes in his scintillating innings of 61 runs of only 30 balls. Punjab came just six runs short but walked away with pride. RCB fans, who waited with aching hearts and painted faces for nearly two decades, could hardly breathe. The agony of 2016, the collapses, the eliminations all haunted this night. But as the final over arrived, all that stood between RCB and destiny was Punjab’s fearless fight. Then, it happened. As the final ball was bowled and the last Punjab hope vanished into the night, Virat Kohli dropped to his knees. No roar. No leap. Just stillness. Head bowed, eyes closed. Eighteen years of carrying a city’s hope flowed into the earth beneath him. Not just the Narendra Modi Stadium the entire country erupted. Firecrackers lit the sky from Kolkata to Delhi, from Mumbai to Bengaluru. This wasn’t just RCB’s win. It was India’s collective victory. Every cricket fan erupts in euphoria as the King has got the only trophy eluding his cabinet. In the post-match presentation, Kohli said, “I’ve given my youth to this team. And tonight, it gave something priceless back.” He also reminded youngsters, “IPL is beautiful, but never forget Test cricket; that’s where real character is built.” After clinching victory and thanking his teammates, Kohli ran towards his lady love, Anushka Sharma, his strength and calm. The one who saw the struggle behind the smiles. The one who always believed. And now, Bengaluru believes too. The drought is over. The dream, fulfilled. RCB champions at last. "Ee Sala Cup Namde" (This year, the cup is ours) The vow has been fulfilled.

Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more.

The wait is over. King Kohli's legacy, sealed. RCB: Champions, IPL 2025

It was in 2016 that Virat Kohli scored 973 runs in the season but Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) still failed to win the IPL title. Nine years on, RCB are having one of their best seasons and Kohli is again leading in run scoring for them.Kohli currently has 602 runs after 14 league stage games - the fifth most and 77 behind orange cap leader Sai Sudharsan's 679. This is the fifth time Kohli has 600+ runs in an IPL season - the most for any player in history.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-coach-gambhir-breaks-silence-on-shreyas-iyer-snub-from-india-squad-for-england-tests-1748506834686">'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests</a>The batter has also crossed 9K runs for RCB for which he has been playing since IPL's inception back in 2008. Kohli is in great touch this season - having hit eight fifties in 14 innings which are the most for any batter.Kohli's runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).Kohli's success with the bat has translated into RCB's result as well. The Rajat Patidar-led team finished second on the points table after the league stage with 18 points from nine wins, one no result and four losses.This is one of the best years RCB are having as they look forward to end the title drought which has been going on for 18 years.The winner of the RCB vs PBKS will move directly into the final which is set to be played on June 3 while the loser will get another opportunity to make it to the final by playing in the Qualifier 2 - the perk of finishing in the top two.The losing team of Qualifier 1 will play the winner of MI vs GT Eliminator game (May 30) in Qualifier 2 on June 1.

Kohli's 602 runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).

It was in 2016 that Virat Kohli scored 973 runs in the season but Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) still failed to win the IPL title. Nine years on, RCB are having one of their best seasons and Kohli is again leading in run scoring for them. Kohli currently has 602 runs after 14 league stage games - the fifth most and 77 behind orange cap leader Sai Sudharsan's 679. This is the fifth time Kohli has 600+ runs in an IPL season - the most for any player in history. Also Read - 'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests The batter has also crossed 9K runs for RCB for which he has been playing since IPL's inception back in 2008. Kohli is in great touch this season - having hit eight fifties in 14 innings which are the most for any batter. Kohli's runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). Kohli's success with the bat has translated into RCB's result as well. The Rajat Patidar-led team finished second on the points table after the league stage with 18 points from nine wins, one no result and four losses. This is one of the best years RCB are having as they look forward to end the title drought which has been going on for 18 years. The winner of the RCB vs PBKS will move directly into the final which is set to be played on June 3 while the loser will get another opportunity to make it to the final by playing in the Qualifier 2 - the perk of finishing in the top two. The losing team of Qualifier 1 will play the winner of MI vs GT Eliminator game (May 30) in Qualifier 2 on June 1.

Kohli's 602 runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).

PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Kohli's bumper season with bat ignites IPL 2016 memories for Bengaluru

As the stage is all set for an epic Qualifier 1 clash between PBKS and RCB in New Chandigarh stadium, let us have a look at their previous stats.

IPL 2025 | PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Head-to-head, records, playoff stats and iconic performances

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 42 runs in Lucknow on Friday (May 23) to dent their hopes of a top-two finish in IPL 2025. SRH won its fifth game this season, with gloveman Ishan Kishan finding form just at the right time, scoring a match-winning unbeaten 93 in the first innings.&nbsp;For the RCB, openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt were among the runs, but it wasn’t enough as wickets tumbled during fag end of the innings, conceding the chance to go on top of the points table.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-14-year-old-ipl-boss-baby-vaibhav-suryavanshi-receives-warm-welcome-at-home-after-maiden-season-watch-rajasthan-royals-1748021797160">14-year-old IPL boss baby Vaibhav Suryavanshi receives warm welcome at home after maiden season – Watch</a> &nbsp;Sitting at the contrasting ends of the points table, with one team (SRH) out of the playoffs race and the other (RCB) closing in on finishing inside the top two, this top-tier clash had everything for the fans.&nbsp; &nbsp;RCB won the toss and elected to field first, with SRH star openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head adding 54 for the first wicket. After losing two wickets without bothering the score, the attacking pair of Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen stitched a 48-run stand in 27 balls before the Proteas departed. &nbsp;Handy contributions from Aniket Verma (26), Abhinav Manohar (12) and Captain Pat Cummins (12) kept the fans entertained, but what stood out was Kishan’s innings, who scored an unbeaten 94 off 48 balls, hitting five sixes and seven fours. Magnificent batting effort saw them hit 231 for six in 20 overs.<h2>Kohli, Salt show in Lucknow, but for nothing &nbsp;</h2>Virat Kohli and Phil Salt put RCB on top with a blistering start, adding 80 runs for the first wicket inside seven overs. After Kohli’s departure, RCB lost two wickets in Mayank Agarwal and Salt (62 off 32 balls) before Impact Player Rajat Patidar and keeper Jitesh Sharma added 44 for the fourth wicket to put them back in the game. &nbsp;That triggered a late collapse, with the RCB losing the remaining six wickets for just 16 runs; Cummins returned with three wickets, while everyone else bagged too.&nbsp; &nbsp;As a result, SRH folded RCB on 189, winning the contest by 42 runs. &nbsp;While RCB’s last league game is against LSG on Tuesday (May 27), SRH will face KKR on Sunday (May 25).&nbsp;

IPL 2025 Ishan Kishan finds form with bat as SRH beat RCB to dent their top two hopes

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 42 runs in Lucknow on Friday (May 23) to dent their hopes of a top-two finish in IPL 2025. SRH won its fifth game this season, with gloveman Ishan Kishan finding form just at the right time, scoring a match-winning unbeaten 93 in the first innings. For the RCB, openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt were among the runs, but it wasn’t enough as wickets tumbled during fag end of the innings, conceding the chance to go on top of the points table. Also read | 14-year-old IPL boss baby Vaibhav Suryavanshi receives warm welcome at home after maiden season – Watch Sitting at the contrasting ends of the points table, with one team (SRH) out of the playoffs race and the other (RCB) closing in on finishing inside the top two, this top-tier clash had everything for the fans. RCB won the toss and elected to field first, with SRH star openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head adding 54 for the first wicket. After losing two wickets without bothering the score, the attacking pair of Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen stitched a 48-run stand in 27 balls before the Proteas departed. Handy contributions from Aniket Verma (26), Abhinav Manohar (12) and Captain Pat Cummins (12) kept the fans entertained, but what stood out was Kishan’s innings, who scored an unbeaten 94 off 48 balls, hitting five sixes and seven fours. Magnificent batting effort saw them hit 231 for six in 20 overs. Kohli, Salt show in Lucknow, but for nothing Virat Kohli and Phil Salt put RCB on top with a blistering start, adding 80 runs for the first wicket inside seven overs. After Kohli’s departure, RCB lost two wickets in Mayank Agarwal and Salt (62 off 32 balls) before Impact Player Rajat Patidar and keeper Jitesh Sharma added 44 for the fourth wicket to put them back in the game. That triggered a late collapse, with the RCB losing the remaining six wickets for just 16 runs; Cummins returned with three wickets, while everyone else bagged too. As a result, SRH folded RCB on 189, winning the contest by 42 runs. While RCB’s last league game is against LSG on Tuesday (May 27), SRH will face KKR on Sunday (May 25).

For the RCB, openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt were among the runs, but it wasn’t enough as wickets tumbled during fag end of the innings, conceding the chance to go on top of the points table.

IPL 2025: Ishan Kishan finds form with bat as SRH beat RCB to dent their top-two hopes

The race for a spot in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) took a twist on Thursday (May 22) after already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants beat Gujarat Titans by 33 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The defeat for GT means, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings are now in pole position to book their place in the top two, which guarantees two shots for a place in the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;<h2>Why race for top-two spot heats up?</h2>Finishing in the top-two spots guarantees a place in Qualifier 1, therefore meaning a team can have two opportunities to qualify for the IPL 2025 final. According to the IPL format, teams finishing in the top two spots qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which directly books a place in the final. At the same time, the loser gets another opportunity to qualify for the summit clash. The loser of Qualifier 1 plays the winner of Eliminator (clash between 3rd and 4th placed sides in the league phase) in Qualifier 2.<h2>Who is in the race for top-two spot?</h2>At the time of writing, Gujarat Titans sit top of the table with 18 points from 13 matches, followed by RCB and PBKS with 17 points each from 12 games. RCB and PBKS are separated by Net Run Rate (NRR), meaning the race for the top two could go down to the wire. Mumbai Indians sit fourth with 16 points from 13 matches and can reach a maximum of 18 points.&nbsp;<h2>Gujarat Titans</h2>Still, on top of the IPL 2025 standings, GT now need a favour from other teams to book their place in Qualifier 1. They can reach a maximum of 20 points if they manage to beat Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. However, both RCB and PBKS can reach a maximum of 21 points if they win their respective remaining matches, putting them in pole position for a Qualifier 1 spot.&nbsp;<h2>Royal Challengers Bengaluru</h2>Currently in the second spot on NRR, RCB play SunRisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants in their remaining matches. If they win both their matches and maintain a healthy NRR, they will book their place in Qualifier 1. A defeat for RCB in either match could still see them qualify for Qualifier 1, but they will need favours from other sides and hope PBKS or GT lose at least one of their matches.&nbsp;<h2>Punjab Kings</h2>Sitting in the third spot, PBKS will need to match RCB’s results in their remaining matches to book their place in the top two spots. GT’s defeat means they can leapfrog the 2022 IPL champions with wins in the remaining matches. NRR will no longer be an issue for PBKS as they and RCB both can finish in the top two spots. They play Delhi and Mumbai on Saturday and Monday, respectively, to end the league phase.&nbsp;<h2>Mumbai Indians</h2>The five-time champions booked their place in the IPL 2025 Playoffs on Wednesday with a 59-run win over Delhi. Mumbai would still need either PBKS or RCB to lose both their remaining matches while also hoping CSK beat GT on Sunday. If this set of results is achieved with a win for MI against PBKS on Monday, they will finish in the Qualifier 1 spot. NRR won’t be a factor as they already have a better tally than GT and won’t finish with the same points as RCB and PBKS.

The race for a spot in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) took a twist on Thursday (May 22) after already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants beat Gujarat Titans by 33 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium. 

The race for a spot in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) took a twist on Thursday (May 22) after already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants beat Gujarat Titans by 33 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The defeat for GT means, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings are now in pole position to book their place in the top two, which guarantees two shots for a place in the IPL 2025 final. Why race for top-two spot heats up? Finishing in the top-two spots guarantees a place in Qualifier 1, therefore meaning a team can have two opportunities to qualify for the IPL 2025 final. According to the IPL format, teams finishing in the top two spots qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which directly books a place in the final. At the same time, the loser gets another opportunity to qualify for the summit clash. The loser of Qualifier 1 plays the winner of Eliminator (clash between 3rd and 4th placed sides in the league phase) in Qualifier 2. Who is in the race for top-two spot? At the time of writing, Gujarat Titans sit top of the table with 18 points from 13 matches, followed by RCB and PBKS with 17 points each from 12 games. RCB and PBKS are separated by Net Run Rate (NRR), meaning the race for the top two could go down to the wire. Mumbai Indians sit fourth with 16 points from 13 matches and can reach a maximum of 18 points. Gujarat Titans Still, on top of the IPL 2025 standings, GT now need a favour from other teams to book their place in Qualifier 1. They can reach a maximum of 20 points if they manage to beat Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. However, both RCB and PBKS can reach a maximum of 21 points if they win their respective remaining matches, putting them in pole position for a Qualifier 1 spot. Royal Challengers Bengaluru Currently in the second spot on NRR, RCB play SunRisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants in their remaining matches. If they win both their matches and maintain a healthy NRR, they will book their place in Qualifier 1. A defeat for RCB in either match could still see them qualify for Qualifier 1, but they will need favours from other sides and hope PBKS or GT lose at least one of their matches. Punjab Kings Sitting in the third spot, PBKS will need to match RCB’s results in their remaining matches to book their place in the top two spots. GT’s defeat means they can leapfrog the 2022 IPL champions with wins in the remaining matches. NRR will no longer be an issue for PBKS as they and RCB both can finish in the top two spots. They play Delhi and Mumbai on Saturday and Monday, respectively, to end the league phase. Mumbai Indians The five-time champions booked their place in the IPL 2025 Playoffs on Wednesday with a 59-run win over Delhi. Mumbai would still need either PBKS or RCB to lose both their remaining matches while also hoping CSK beat GT on Sunday. If this set of results is achieved with a win for MI against PBKS on Monday, they will finish in the Qualifier 1 spot. NRR won’t be a factor as they already have a better tally than GT and won’t finish with the same points as RCB and PBKS.

The race for a spot in Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) took a twist on Thursday (May 22) after already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants beat Gujarat Titans by 33 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;

IPL 2025: Advantage PBKS, RCB as GT's defeat to LSG leaves race for Qualifier 1 spot wide open

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has shifted Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) home game fixture on May 23 against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow. This comes after India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert warning for Bengaluru.The yellow warning means 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' &nbsp;which is predicted by the IMD in Bengaluru until Thursday (May 22). Notably RCB, which are currently second on the points table with 17 points from 12 games, saw their last game against KKR get washed out at home as well.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/owner-sanjiv-goenka-acknowledges-challenging-second-half-of-the-season-as-lsg-crash-out-of-ipl-2025-playoffs-1747733858928">Owner Sanjiv Goenka acknowledges 'challenging second half of the season' as LSG crash out of IPL 2025 playoffs</a>After playing against SRH, they'll play their last league game of season against LSG on May 27 at the same venue. SRH, meanwhile, have been asked to stay in Lucknow after beating the home team in their last league game against on Monday (May 19).The switch gives RCB a clear picture and a better chance to consolidate their top-two finish now that the looming rain threat has been taken care of.The IPL, as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, has also shifted the two playoff games from Hyderabad and Kolkata to Mullanpur and Ahmedabad.Mullanpur, the home ground of Punjab Kings, will host the first and second qualifier on May 29 and 31, respectively while Ahmedabad will host the eliminator and the final on June 1 and 3, respectively.Three teams, in RCB, GT and PBKS, have already been decided for the playoffs. The final playoff team will be between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians.If MI wins, they will qualify directly. But even with win, DC will have to beat PBKS in their last league game and hope MI lose their final match against PBKS to make it to the top four.

This comes after India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert warning for Bengaluru. The yellow warning means 'heavy to very heavy rainfall'  which is predicted by the IMD in Bengaluru until Thursday (May 22).

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has shifted Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) home game fixture on May 23 against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) to Lucknow. This comes after India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert warning for Bengaluru. The yellow warning means 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' which is predicted by the IMD in Bengaluru until Thursday (May 22). Notably RCB, which are currently second on the points table with 17 points from 12 games, saw their last game against KKR get washed out at home as well. Also Read - Owner Sanjiv Goenka acknowledges 'challenging second half of the season' as LSG crash out of IPL 2025 playoffs After playing against SRH, they'll play their last league game of season against LSG on May 27 at the same venue. SRH, meanwhile, have been asked to stay in Lucknow after beating the home team in their last league game against on Monday (May 19). The switch gives RCB a clear picture and a better chance to consolidate their top-two finish now that the looming rain threat has been taken care of. The IPL, as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, has also shifted the two playoff games from Hyderabad and Kolkata to Mullanpur and Ahmedabad. Mullanpur, the home ground of Punjab Kings, will host the first and second qualifier on May 29 and 31, respectively while Ahmedabad will host the eliminator and the final on June 1 and 3, respectively. Three teams, in RCB, GT and PBKS, have already been decided for the playoffs. The final playoff team will be between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians. If MI wins, they will qualify directly. But even with win, DC will have to beat PBKS in their last league game and hope MI lose their final match against PBKS to make it to the top four.

This comes after India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert warning for Bengaluru. The yellow warning means 'heavy to very heavy rainfall' &nbsp;which is predicted by the IMD in Bengaluru until Thursday (May 22).

IPL shifts RCB-SRH to Lucknow, playoffs shifted from Hyderabad and Kolkata to Mullanpur and Ahmedabad

Zimbabwe frontline seamer Blessing Muzarabani has earned his second IPL call-up as a temporary replacement for South African quick Lungi Ngidi at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remainder of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025">IPL 2025</a>. Ngidi will leave the RCB camp on May 26 to link up with South Africa’s WTC-Final-bound squad to prepare for the summit clash against Australia on June 11 in London. RCB roped in Muzarabani, uncapped in IPL, for INR 75 lakh.&nbsp;&nbsp;RCB qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs following Gujarat Titans’ 10-wicket win over Delhi Capitals the other night.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-sai-sudharsan-shubman-gill-gujarat-titans-gt-dc-playoffs-england-india-tests-1747634536318">ENG Tests hopeful Sai Sudharsan lauds captain Gill in DC win, credits IPL break for heroic ton</a> &nbsp;While Ngidi will be part of the RCB squad for their final home game this season against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday (May 23), Muzarabani will replace him for their last league game in IPL 2025 four days later against the LSG in Lucknow. &nbsp;Muzarabani’s travel schedule remains unclear as he is part of Zimbabwe’s four-day Test match against England starting May 22 at Trent Bridge. The lanky seamer also has another game lined up after that, beginning June 3 – the day of the IPL 2025 Final against South Africa, which acts as a warm-up game for the Proteas ahead of the WTC Final 2025.&nbsp; &nbsp;Besides Ngidi, RCB would also miss Josh Hazlewood, who is nursing a shoulder niggle and remains unlikely to rejoin the squad for the remainder of the tournament. Though barring him, all overseas players rejoined the side following the IPL break, RCB all-rounder Jacob Bethell would depart for the UK (for the home white-ball series against West Indies) ahead of RCB’s penultimate game (May 24).&nbsp; &nbsp;Although never been picked at any auction before, Muzarabani was part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) setup in the 2022 season as a net bowler. Andy Flower, RCB’s current head coach, was with the Lucknow franchise back then. Both have worked together previously in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for Multan Sultans and Gulf Giants in ILT20.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Muzarabani has been one of Zimbabwe’s standout players over the past few years. A shorter format specialist, Muzarabani has picked 26 wickets in the past four matches, including a nine-wicket haul against Bangladesh in the Sylhet Test in April.

Zimbabwe seamer earns IPL call-up as temporary replacement for Lungi Ngidi at RCB

Zimbabwe frontline seamer Blessing Muzarabani has earned his second IPL call-up as a temporary replacement for South African quick Lungi Ngidi at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remainder of IPL 2025. Ngidi will leave the RCB camp on May 26 to link up with South Africa’s WTC-Final-bound squad to prepare for the summit clash against Australia on June 11 in London. RCB roped in Muzarabani, uncapped in IPL, for INR 75 lakh. RCB qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs following Gujarat Titans’ 10-wicket win over Delhi Capitals the other night. Also read | ENG Tests hopeful Sai Sudharsan lauds captain Gill in DC win, credits IPL break for heroic ton While Ngidi will be part of the RCB squad for their final home game this season against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday (May 23), Muzarabani will replace him for their last league game in IPL 2025 four days later against the LSG in Lucknow. Muzarabani’s travel schedule remains unclear as he is part of Zimbabwe’s four-day Test match against England starting May 22 at Trent Bridge. The lanky seamer also has another game lined up after that, beginning June 3 – the day of the IPL 2025 Final against South Africa, which acts as a warm-up game for the Proteas ahead of the WTC Final 2025. Besides Ngidi, RCB would also miss Josh Hazlewood, who is nursing a shoulder niggle and remains unlikely to rejoin the squad for the remainder of the tournament. Though barring him, all overseas players rejoined the side following the IPL break, RCB all-rounder Jacob Bethell would depart for the UK (for the home white-ball series against West Indies) ahead of RCB’s penultimate game (May 24). Although never been picked at any auction before, Muzarabani was part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) setup in the 2022 season as a net bowler. Andy Flower, RCB’s current head coach, was with the Lucknow franchise back then. Both have worked together previously in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for Multan Sultans and Gulf Giants in ILT20. Meanwhile, Muzarabani has been one of Zimbabwe’s standout players over the past few years. A shorter format specialist, Muzarabani has picked 26 wickets in the past four matches, including a nine-wicket haul against Bangladesh in the Sylhet Test in April.

RCB qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs following Gujarat Titans’ 10-wicket win over Delhi Capitals the other night.&nbsp;

In a worst-possible-case scenario on Saturday (May 17), the rain could play spoilsport in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> return leg&rsquo;s opener between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru. As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms, heavy on occasion, could headline Saturday&rsquo;s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) further predicts one or two spells of rain during the game time.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-gets-underway-with-blockbuster-rcb-vs-kkr-in-bengaluru-heres-what-we-know-9077582" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here&rsquo;s what we know</a>
Meanwhile, rain also had to do with both teams deciding on their training session timings before the marquee clash. While the hosts held their training session from 2 PM to 5 PM on the match-day eve, a decision team director Mo Bobat said, was taken considering the patchy weather conditions in the city, the travelling side began their practice from 5 PM onwards but ended at around 6:30 PM.
Rain, however, continued to pour in abundance since Friday night at around 9:30 PM when both teams completed their practice sessions. It didn&rsquo;t stop for at least three to four hours, while it was the same case the previous night.
<h2>What happens if rain plays spoilsport?</h2>
If rain causes no result on Saturday, with each team bagging one point, it&rsquo;s going to be curtains for KKR, who will, at best, finish at 14 points in as many games (should they win their last league match) while it will put RCB in the playoff spot.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-sunil-gavaskar-explains-how-mi-captain-hardik-pandya-made-mumbai-fans-cheer-for-him-after-booing-him-last-season-9078115" rel="dofollow">Gavaskar explains how MI captain Pandya made Mumbai fans cheer for him after booing throughout last season</a>
Even in case of a washout, RCB can finish in the top two and thus qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which reaches the final, while the loser would get another chance to reach the summit clash in Qualifier 2.
<h3>&lsquo;Not much you can do&rsquo;</h3>
Bobat reflected on the outcome of a washout at the venue on Saturday, adding that outside of wanting the players to feel calm and relaxed about the game, there are things one cannot control, and rain and results are part of them.
"When you get to game day, you can't control it," Bobat said on match eve. "So, actually you want your players to feel as clear and relaxed as possible. You trust them to make decisions in the moment, regardless of what happens.
"We don't overthink any of those things really. If the game's rain-affected, it's rain-affected. It's not something any of us control. So, we don't really think too much about that, but it might influence our preparation,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;

As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms could headline Saturday’s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game. Sports, Cricket

In a worst-possible-case scenario on Saturday (May 17), the rain could play spoilsport in the IPL 2025 return leg’s opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru. As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms, heavy on occasion, could headline Saturday’s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) further predicts one or two spells of rain during the game time. Also read | IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here’s what we know Meanwhile, rain also had to do with both teams deciding on their training session timings before the marquee clash. While the hosts held their training session from 2 PM to 5 PM on the match-day eve, a decision team director Mo Bobat said, was taken considering the patchy weather conditions in the city, the travelling side began their practice from 5 PM onwards but ended at around 6:30 PM. Rain, however, continued to pour in abundance since Friday night at around 9:30 PM when both teams completed their practice sessions. It didn’t stop for at least three to four hours, while it was the same case the previous night. What happens if rain plays spoilsport? If rain causes no result on Saturday, with each team bagging one point, it’s going to be curtains for KKR, who will, at best, finish at 14 points in as many games (should they win their last league match) while it will put RCB in the playoff spot. Also read | Gavaskar explains how MI captain Pandya made Mumbai fans cheer for him after booing throughout last season Even in case of a washout, RCB can finish in the top two and thus qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which reaches the final, while the loser would get another chance to reach the summit clash in Qualifier 2. ‘Not much you can do’ Bobat reflected on the outcome of a washout at the venue on Saturday, adding that outside of wanting the players to feel calm and relaxed about the game, there are things one cannot control, and rain and results are part of them. "When you get to game day, you can't control it," Bobat said on match eve. "So, actually you want your players to feel as clear and relaxed as possible. You trust them to make decisions in the moment, regardless of what happens. "We don't overthink any of those things really. If the game's rain-affected, it's rain-affected. It's not something any of us control. So, we don't really think too much about that, but it might influence our preparation,” he continued.

IPL 2025: Will rain play spoilsport in Bengaluru? Check out weather forecast for RCB-KKR game

Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg.
The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar.
On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year.
<h2>IPL 2025 resumes</h2>
After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition&rsquo;s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone&rsquo;s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday).
Although India and Pakistan &lsquo;agreed to an understanding&rsquo; soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately.&nbsp;
After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday).&nbsp;
While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons.
<h3>Who is missing RCB-KKR match?</h3>
A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR&rsquo;s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments.
However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side&rsquo;s marquee game against KKR.
<h3>Here are the predicted XIs of both teams &ndash;</h3>
RCB - Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma
KKR - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana

After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with RCB hosting KKR in first game of the return leg. Sports, Cricket

Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of IPL 2025, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg. The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar. On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year. IPL 2025 resumes After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition’s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone’s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday). Although India and Pakistan ‘agreed to an understanding’ soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately. After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday). While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons. Who is missing RCB-KKR match? A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR’s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments. However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side’s marquee game against KKR. Here are the predicted XIs of both teams – RCB - Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma KKR - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana

IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here’s what we know

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. David, who, along with other international stars, left the IPL midway, was spotted in the RCB camp on Thursday (May 15). David will now join the likes of Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt as RCB search for their maiden IPL title.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Morphers activated. Our 𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 are back. 🙌 Right on time and ready to strike! ⚡👊 <a href="https://t.co/ExyTQBYshD">pic.twitter.com/ExyTQBYshD</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1922927156880883768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Tim David returns to the RCB camp<o:p></o:p></h2>
With the IPL 2025 on hold due to the Indo-Pak war, international stars were forced to return back home. This included Tim and other members of the RCB squad while they were in Lucknow for their fixture against Lucknow Super Giants last Friday. David has played an important role in the middle-order as he aids with both bat and ball. <o:p></o:p>
So far in 11 matches of the IPL 2025, David has scored 186 runs with a best of an unbeaten 50. He has an average of 93 while striking at 194. Interestingly, the next time steps on the field for RCB will be his 50th match in the IPL. <o:p></o:p>
On the other hand, RCB were also boosted by the return of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone. However, the franchise is still sweating on the return of speedster Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder injury, while Ngidi&rsquo;s availability in the Playoffs is still doubtful due to him being named in the South African squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-batter-kusal-mendis-ditches-psl-for-maiden-ipl-stint-replaces-jos-butter-at-gujarat-titans-for-ipl-2025-playoffs-9071381" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs</a> 
Hazlewood has been the frontline option for RCB and has scalped 18 wickets so far in the IPL 2025. His miss could dent RCB&rsquo;s chances of winning their maiden IPL title, while the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal have been decent. <o:p></o:p>
RCB will restart their IPL 2025 season with a home fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with a win guaranteeing them a place in the Playoffs. On the other hand, a defeat for KKR will end their pursuit of a place in the Playoffs.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. India News | Sports | Cricket

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been boosted by the return of Tim David as the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season is set for a restart. David, who, along with other international stars, left the IPL midway, was spotted in the RCB camp on Thursday (May 15). David will now join the likes of Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt as RCB search for their maiden IPL title. Morphers activated. Our 𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 are back. 🙌 Right on time and ready to strike! ⚡👊 pic.twitter.com/ExyTQBYshD — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 15, 2025 Tim David returns to the RCB camp With the IPL 2025 on hold due to the Indo-Pak war, international stars were forced to return back home. This included Tim and other members of the RCB squad while they were in Lucknow for their fixture against Lucknow Super Giants last Friday. David has played an important role in the middle-order as he aids with both bat and ball. So far in 11 matches of the IPL 2025, David has scored 186 runs with a best of an unbeaten 50. He has an average of 93 while striking at 194. Interestingly, the next time steps on the field for RCB will be his 50th match in the IPL. On the other hand, RCB were also boosted by the return of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone. However, the franchise is still sweating on the return of speedster Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder injury, while Ngidi’s availability in the Playoffs is still doubtful due to him being named in the South African squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka’s Mendis ditches PSL for maiden IPL stint; replaces Butter at GT for playoffs Hazlewood has been the frontline option for RCB and has scalped 18 wickets so far in the IPL 2025. His miss could dent RCB’s chances of winning their maiden IPL title, while the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal have been decent. RCB will restart their IPL 2025 season with a home fixture against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with a win guaranteeing them a place in the Playoffs. On the other hand, a defeat for KKR will end their pursuit of a place in the Playoffs.

IPL 2025: Playoff-bound RCB get huge boost, Tim David joins squad ahead of restart

In a massive boost to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bangalore-rcb" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a>, the overseas duo of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone has rejoined the franchise ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> resumption on Saturday (May 17). With the tournament restarting following a nine-day suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the RCB receives this morale-pushing news amid foreign players' logistical concerns surrounding the international calendar.
Shepherd is among a handful of West Indies players who returned to India alongside the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> duo of Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and their mentor, Dwayne Bravo. While Shepherd is part of West Indies&rsquo; white-ball squad for the away England series starting May 29 - the day IPL 2025 gets underway, Cricket West Indies (CWI) is yet to clarify if all those picked for the international series leave the IPL 2025 midway.
On the other hand, Livingstone has also rejoined the franchise, which sits in second place on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches. Liam&rsquo;s England teammate Jacob Bethell has already rejoined the team; though the rookie all-rounder is part of the England squad for the home series against WI, the ECB dropped Liam from both ODI and T20I squads.&nbsp;
Bethell will remain available for RCB&rsquo;s next two matches - against KKR and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) &ndash; but fly home before the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) tie. Per the latest reports, the ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments.
<h2>No words on the overseas pace duo</h2>
On the other hand, the RCB awaits confirmation on its overseas pace duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-hazlewood" rel="dofollow">Josh Hazlewood</a> and Lungi Ngidi.&nbsp;
Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder niggle he suffered earlier this month and would have missed the tournament anyway had it not been interrupted. Ngidi, who made his RCB debut against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and is also part of South Africa&rsquo;s WTC Final squad against Australia, might remain available for just two matches before linking with the South Africa squad.
The WTC-bound South African players will leave the IPL by May 25.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Phil Salt, who missed the last two games for the franchise due to illness, will remain available for the remainder of the tournament. He is part of the T20I squad against the West Indies, which begins June 6, three days after the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;

The ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments. Sports, Cricket

In a massive boost to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the overseas duo of Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone has rejoined the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 resumption on Saturday (May 17). With the tournament restarting following a nine-day suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the RCB receives this morale-pushing news amid foreign players' logistical concerns surrounding the international calendar. Shepherd is among a handful of West Indies players who returned to India alongside the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) duo of Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and their mentor, Dwayne Bravo. While Shepherd is part of West Indies’ white-ball squad for the away England series starting May 29 - the day IPL 2025 gets underway, Cricket West Indies (CWI) is yet to clarify if all those picked for the international series leave the IPL 2025 midway. On the other hand, Livingstone has also rejoined the franchise, which sits in second place on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches. Liam’s England teammate Jacob Bethell has already rejoined the team; though the rookie all-rounder is part of the England squad for the home series against WI, the ECB dropped Liam from both ODI and T20I squads. Bethell will remain available for RCB’s next two matches - against KKR and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) – but fly home before the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) tie. Per the latest reports, the ECB and several other boards decided against extending NOCs to their players beyond the decided date earlier (May 25) to honour international commitments. No words on the overseas pace duo On the other hand, the RCB awaits confirmation on its overseas pace duo of Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder niggle he suffered earlier this month and would have missed the tournament anyway had it not been interrupted. Ngidi, who made his RCB debut against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and is also part of South Africa’s WTC Final squad against Australia, might remain available for just two matches before linking with the South Africa squad. The WTC-bound South African players will leave the IPL by May 25. Meanwhile, Phil Salt, who missed the last two games for the franchise due to illness, will remain available for the remainder of the tournament. He is part of the T20I squad against the West Indies, which begins June 6, three days after the IPL 2025 final.

IPL 2025: Romario Shepherd and Liam Livingstone rejoin RCB squad; no clarity on foreign pace duo

Despite talks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> resuming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> following suspending it for security concerns, the reports of several overseas players and coaching staff, mainly Australians and South Africans - the two teams involved in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, are contemplating returning for the remainder of the tournament.
Though most foreign players returned home shortly after the Indian Cricket Board halted proceedings, barring Punjab Kings&rsquo; players, all are unlikely to return despite the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-ceasefire-bcci-likely-to-resume-ipl-2025-from-next-week-report-cricket-operation-sindoor-overseas-players-9055897" rel="dofollow">BCCI planning to resume it from next week onwards</a>.
BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week on Friday (May 9) due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, ordering everyone, including the foreign contingent, to disperse before the situation turns ugly. However, to everyone&rsquo;s delight, both countries agreed to an understanding to stop military operations the next day (May 10), giving hope for its resumption.&nbsp;
Although most overseas players returned home or were already on their way back before the ceasefire statement came out, the BCCI made it tougher for all teams by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-asks-teams-to-assemble-all-players-by-tuesday-more-double-headers-in-revised-schedule-report-9057633" rel="dofollow">asking them to arrange for their return before next Tuesday (May 13)</a> so they could resume IPL 2025 by Friday (May 16).
With several changes on the cards, including staging more doubleheaders to compensate for the days lost and pushing back the final&rsquo;s date (from May 25 to May 30), the WTC Final-bound Aussies and South African players are caught in the logistical challenge, given both teams will fight out for the coveted trophy starting June 11 at Lord&rsquo;s.
<h2>Hazlewood doubtful for RCB</h2>
Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood is the third-highest wicket-taker with 18 scalps from ten contested games in IPL 2025 but remains doubtful for the remainder of the season due to a shoulder niggle.&nbsp;
The right-arm quick missed RCB&rsquo;s last home game against CSK on May 3 and was a doubtful starter for their next away tie against LSG on May 9 before the tournament was suspended; he, however, was to miss the remainder of IPL 2025 had it continued.
As per ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia (CA) remains unbothered by Hazlewood&rsquo;s latest injury, as they would pick him in the Test squad for the WTC Final 2025.
Besides him, the three WTC Final-bound players, SRH captain Pat Cummins and opener Travis Head and Delhi Capitals&rsquo; seamer Mitchell Starc, also have decisions to make, considering the tight window between the IPL 2025 final and the start of the WTC Final.&nbsp;
On the other hand, the participation of the South African players for the remainder of IPL 2025 shall be decided at the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board meeting on Sunday. As of now, the board has already issued NOCs to the players till May 25, with the board stating that the safety and security of players is non-negotiable.&nbsp;

Though most foreign players returned home shortly after the BCCI halted proceedings, all are unlikely to return despite the BCCI planning to resume it from next week onwards. Sports, Cricket

Despite talks of BCCI resuming IPL 2025 following suspending it for security concerns, the reports of several overseas players and coaching staff, mainly Australians and South Africans - the two teams involved in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, are contemplating returning for the remainder of the tournament. Though most foreign players returned home shortly after the Indian Cricket Board halted proceedings, barring Punjab Kings’ players, all are unlikely to return despite the BCCI planning to resume it from next week onwards. BCCI suspended IPL 2025 for a week on Friday (May 9) due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, ordering everyone, including the foreign contingent, to disperse before the situation turns ugly. However, to everyone’s delight, both countries agreed to an understanding to stop military operations the next day (May 10), giving hope for its resumption. Although most overseas players returned home or were already on their way back before the ceasefire statement came out, the BCCI made it tougher for all teams by asking them to arrange for their return before next Tuesday (May 13) so they could resume IPL 2025 by Friday (May 16). With several changes on the cards, including staging more doubleheaders to compensate for the days lost and pushing back the final’s date (from May 25 to May 30), the WTC Final-bound Aussies and South African players are caught in the logistical challenge, given both teams will fight out for the coveted trophy starting June 11 at Lord’s. Hazlewood doubtful for RCB Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood is the third-highest wicket-taker with 18 scalps from ten contested games in IPL 2025 but remains doubtful for the remainder of the season due to a shoulder niggle. The right-arm quick missed RCB’s last home game against CSK on May 3 and was a doubtful starter for their next away tie against LSG on May 9 before the tournament was suspended; he, however, was to miss the remainder of IPL 2025 had it continued. As per ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia (CA) remains unbothered by Hazlewood’s latest injury, as they would pick him in the Test squad for the WTC Final 2025. Besides him, the three WTC Final-bound players, SRH captain Pat Cummins and opener Travis Head and Delhi Capitals’ seamer Mitchell Starc, also have decisions to make, considering the tight window between the IPL 2025 final and the start of the WTC Final. On the other hand, the participation of the South African players for the remainder of IPL 2025 shall be decided at the Cricket South Africa (CSA) board meeting on Sunday. As of now, the board has already issued NOCs to the players till May 25, with the board stating that the safety and security of players is non-negotiable.

Overseas players could miss remainder of IPL 2025 amid tournament resumption talks – Report

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) contest between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is all set to go ahead despite border escalations between India and Pakistan. The contest set to take place at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow was subject to postponement after Thursday&rsquo;s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned. <o:p></o:p>
While the reason for abandoning the match was mentioned as &ldquo;technical failure,&rdquo; it is well known that the Indian government did not want to take any chances and ordered a blackout in Dharamsala. The location is close to the India-Pakistan border, as the two nations are currently engaged in a near-war situation. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">LSG vs RCB to go ahead<o:p></o:p></h2>
"It is on as of now. We are reviewing the situation right now. It is an evolving situation. We haven't received any directive from the government. Obviously the decision will be taken keeping all the logistics in mind," Dhumal told PTI on Thursday night after the Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) IPL 2025 game in Dharamsala was called off after 10.1 overs owing to what an IPL statement called "a significant technical failure."
On Thursday, fans were asked to vacate the stadium in Dharamsala after a blackout was ordered in the city. Floodlights were turned off and fans, along with players, were asked to leave the location at the earliest. Soon after abandoning the match, a special train was arranged for players to carry them from Pathankot to Delhi, as airports have been shut due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pak-war-latest-news-we-are-proud-neeraj-chopra-reacts-on-indian-defence-forcesswift-reply-to-pakistani-attack-9049871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack</a>
The players are expected to arrive in Delhi on Friday before they are moved to a safe environment. <o:p></o:p>
On the other hand, the IPL season&rsquo;s future was in limbo after Thursday&rsquo;s development. However, for now, the IPL will go ahead with a few changes expected. It has already been announced that Sunday&rsquo;s fixture between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings has been shifted to Ahmedabad, having previously been scheduled for Dharamsala.

The IPL 2025  contest between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is all set to go ahead despite border escalations between India and Pakistan. India News | Cricket | Sports

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) contest between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is all set to go ahead despite border escalations between India and Pakistan. The contest set to take place at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow was subject to postponement after Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned. While the reason for abandoning the match was mentioned as “technical failure,” it is well known that the Indian government did not want to take any chances and ordered a blackout in Dharamsala. The location is close to the India-Pakistan border, as the two nations are currently engaged in a near-war situation. LSG vs RCB to go ahead "It is on as of now. We are reviewing the situation right now. It is an evolving situation. We haven't received any directive from the government. Obviously the decision will be taken keeping all the logistics in mind," Dhumal told PTI on Thursday night after the Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) IPL 2025 game in Dharamsala was called off after 10.1 overs owing to what an IPL statement called "a significant technical failure." On Thursday, fans were asked to vacate the stadium in Dharamsala after a blackout was ordered in the city. Floodlights were turned off and fans, along with players, were asked to leave the location at the earliest. Soon after abandoning the match, a special train was arranged for players to carry them from Pathankot to Delhi, as airports have been shut due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. ALSO READ | Indo-Pak War | 'We are proud,' Neeraj Chopra reacts on Indian defence forces' swift reply to Pakistani attack The players are expected to arrive in Delhi on Friday before they are moved to a safe environment. On the other hand, the IPL season’s future was in limbo after Thursday’s development. However, for now, the IPL will go ahead with a few changes expected. It has already been announced that Sunday’s fixture between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings has been shifted to Ahmedabad, having previously been scheduled for Dharamsala.

'On as of now': IPL chairman Arun Dhumal gives go ahead for LSG vs RCB match in Lucknow

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has made a shocking revelation in the latest podcast, leaving the cricketing fraternity baffled. Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. He also opened up on the workload he had as the captain of the franchise, while he also led the Indian Cricket Team from 2015 to 2021. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat makes a shocking revelation<o:p></o:p></h2>
"I wouldn't say I was tempted, but I did think about it. I asked myself, 'What is more valuable to me?' I&rsquo;ve won a lot of things for India, I&rsquo;ve earned a lot of accolades,&rdquo; the former RCB captain said while speaking to Mayanti Langer in the latest RCB podcast. <o:p></o:p>
"So I had to make a decision: do I want to go into a new setup and figure things out again? That&rsquo;s when I realised that the relationship I&rsquo;ve built here is more valuable &mdash; and so is the mutual respect that&rsquo;s developed over so many years. Now, I&rsquo;m just going to see it through. Whether we win or not, it&rsquo;s fine. This is my home,&rdquo; Kohli added.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-playoffs-scenario-rcb-pbks-in-pole-position-as-mi-gt-and-others-fight-for-last-four-spots-9038778" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Playoffs scenario: RCB, PBKS in pole position as MI, GT and others fight for top four spots</a>
Now in his 18th season, Kohli remains a one-club man, having featured for RCB in all seasons, despite the franchise&rsquo;s failure to win the IPL title. He has scored more than 8000 runs while also holding the record for most hundreds in the competition&rsquo;s history. <o:p></o:p>
Despite a lack of trophies, he has remained loyal to the South India side and could be rewarded for it. At the time of writing, Kohli&rsquo;s RCB has 16 points and have one foot in the Playoffs of IPL 2025. If they are successful in winning the IPL, it will be the veteran&rsquo;s first, having been runner-up on three previous occasions. He also famously lost the now-abolished Champions League final on two occasions.<o:p></o:p>

Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat Kohli opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. India News | Cricket | Sports

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has made a shocking revelation in the latest podcast, leaving the cricketing fraternity baffled. Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. He also opened up on the workload he had as the captain of the franchise, while he also led the Indian Cricket Team from 2015 to 2021. Virat makes a shocking revelation "I wouldn't say I was tempted, but I did think about it. I asked myself, 'What is more valuable to me?' I’ve won a lot of things for India, I’ve earned a lot of accolades,” the former RCB captain said while speaking to Mayanti Langer in the latest RCB podcast. "So I had to make a decision: do I want to go into a new setup and figure things out again? That’s when I realised that the relationship I’ve built here is more valuable — and so is the mutual respect that’s developed over so many years. Now, I’m just going to see it through. Whether we win or not, it’s fine. This is my home,” Kohli added. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Playoffs scenario: RCB, PBKS in pole position as MI, GT and others fight for top four spots Now in his 18th season, Kohli remains a one-club man, having featured for RCB in all seasons, despite the franchise’s failure to win the IPL title. He has scored more than 8000 runs while also holding the record for most hundreds in the competition’s history. Despite a lack of trophies, he has remained loyal to the South India side and could be rewarded for it. At the time of writing, Kohli’s RCB has 16 points and have one foot in the Playoffs of IPL 2025. If they are successful in winning the IPL, it will be the veteran’s first, having been runner-up on three previous occasions. He also famously lost the now-abolished Champions League final on two occasions.

'I did think about leaving RCB': Virat Kohli makes shocking revelation

Ayush Mhatre is just 17, not the youngest in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, but among the most talented blokes. His 94 against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> on Saturday night (May 3) was filled with beautiful strokeplay, his ability to find gaps and the power game needed to become the &lsquo;modern-day T20 batter&rsquo;. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming spoke highly of the Mumbai opener, detailing how his composure and temperament (during the trials) caught everyone&rsquo;s attention.
Chasing 214 in Bengaluru, CSK lost two wickets inside the first six overs but stormed into the driver&rsquo;s seat after Mhatre and Ravindra Jadeja began stitching an almost match-winning partnership for the third wicket. Though 77 off 45 balls was Jadeja&rsquo;s best shot at glory playing at his new position (number four), Mhatre&rsquo;s impressive strokeplay had everyone on the edge of their seats.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-he-is-a-stari-am-gutted-i-cant-work-with-him-dc-mentor-pietersen-on-harry-brook-pulling-out-9031956" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;He is a star&hellip;I am gutted I can&rsquo;t work with him,&rsquo; DC mentor Pietersen on Harry Brook pulling out of IPL 2025</a>
The right-handed batter looked in his element, smashing sixes and fours for fun right from the beginning. Unfazed by pace, variations or even the crowd pressure, Mhatre kept finding gaps at will, keeping CSK afloat in the chase. Despite closing in on his maiden IPL hundred, he didn&rsquo;t change his approach, going ballistic against all bowlers. That, however, saw him miscue one straight to the deep mid-wicket, resulting in his dismissal on a brilliant 94 off just 48 balls, hitting five sixes and nine fours.
"He's got talent. He's got hand-eye coordination. He's got a beautiful, silky swing. He's aggressive. Everything that we like about a modern-day T20 player," Fleming said about Mhatre at the presser after CSK lost to RCB on Saturday night by just two runs.&nbsp;
"But, to me, it's the temperament and being able to execute in a trial and then on the big stage. That's what I'm most impressed with.
"It's one thing to have a lot of shots, but to be able to execute that game plan on a big stage in front of some of the biggest players in the world is what I admire,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>&lsquo;One for the future&rsquo;</h2>
Even though CSK was out of the playoff race in the lead-up to this game, Fleming feels they have found a batter for the future, someone they are highly impressed by.
"It's sometimes hard to explain, but there's just a quality around what he was doing," Fleming said about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-ayush-mhatre-all-of-17-replaces-ruturaj-gaikwad-at-csk-know-more-about-mumbai-opener-8959912" rel="dofollow">Mhatre's selection as Gaikwad's replacement</a>.&nbsp;
"It's early days, but we have been very impressed with his skills right from when he trialled and was with us at the early part of the season.
"We have enjoyed a lot of the shot play from young players in this tournament, and we're delighted that we've got one ourselves. So, yes, excited about the future for him,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, CSK is languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from 11 contested matches.&nbsp;

Unfazed by pace, variations or even the crowd pressure, Ayush Mhatre kept finding gaps at will against RCB, keeping CSK afloat in the chase. Sports, Cricket

Ayush Mhatre is just 17, not the youngest in IPL 2025, but among the most talented blokes. His 94 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday night (May 3) was filled with beautiful strokeplay, his ability to find gaps and the power game needed to become the ‘modern-day T20 batter’. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming spoke highly of the Mumbai opener, detailing how his composure and temperament (during the trials) caught everyone’s attention. Chasing 214 in Bengaluru, CSK lost two wickets inside the first six overs but stormed into the driver’s seat after Mhatre and Ravindra Jadeja began stitching an almost match-winning partnership for the third wicket. Though 77 off 45 balls was Jadeja’s best shot at glory playing at his new position (number four), Mhatre’s impressive strokeplay had everyone on the edge of their seats. Also read | ‘He is a star…I am gutted I can’t work with him,’ DC mentor Pietersen on Harry Brook pulling out of IPL 2025 The right-handed batter looked in his element, smashing sixes and fours for fun right from the beginning. Unfazed by pace, variations or even the crowd pressure, Mhatre kept finding gaps at will, keeping CSK afloat in the chase. Despite closing in on his maiden IPL hundred, he didn’t change his approach, going ballistic against all bowlers. That, however, saw him miscue one straight to the deep mid-wicket, resulting in his dismissal on a brilliant 94 off just 48 balls, hitting five sixes and nine fours. "He's got talent. He's got hand-eye coordination. He's got a beautiful, silky swing. He's aggressive. Everything that we like about a modern-day T20 player," Fleming said about Mhatre at the presser after CSK lost to RCB on Saturday night by just two runs. "But, to me, it's the temperament and being able to execute in a trial and then on the big stage. That's what I'm most impressed with. "It's one thing to have a lot of shots, but to be able to execute that game plan on a big stage in front of some of the biggest players in the world is what I admire,” he continued. ‘One for the future’ Even though CSK was out of the playoff race in the lead-up to this game, Fleming feels they have found a batter for the future, someone they are highly impressed by. "It's sometimes hard to explain, but there's just a quality around what he was doing," Fleming said about Mhatre's selection as Gaikwad's replacement. "It's early days, but we have been very impressed with his skills right from when he trialled and was with us at the early part of the season. "We have enjoyed a lot of the shot play from young players in this tournament, and we're delighted that we've got one ourselves. So, yes, excited about the future for him,” he added. Meanwhile, CSK is languishing at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from 11 contested matches.

IPL 2025: How CSK found ‘modern-day T20 batter’ Ayush Mhatre in dire times, head coach Fleming explains

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings-csk" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> are out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> playoff race, but still have plenty riding on them. Facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> in a marquee away clash on Saturday (May 3) in Bengaluru, they would aim to make it Even Stevens this time, having already lost to them at home earlier. CSK batting coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/michael-hussey" rel="dofollow">Michael Hussey</a> said the team will not lower its guard despite a dismal run this season.
Chennai is languishing at the bottom of the points table with just four points in ten contested matches, while the RCB is sitting in the top half, having won seven games and closing in on the top-four berth. RCB has all to play for in its quest for a maiden IPL title, but if CSK can work on &lsquo;specifics&rsquo;, which Hussey didn&rsquo;t shed too much light on, they can cause an upset, keeping the race for the playoffs alive.
"We're certainly not going to panic and throw everything out just because it hasn't gone well this year," Hussey said ahead of the RCB clash. "But we definitely need to tidy up on a few areas. There's been lots of conversations...it's given us a really clear view on what we need to look at for next season."
Meanwhile, Chennai&rsquo;s IPL success has always had everything to do with their win record at Chepauk, something that was the difference this time. Considering they lost just seven matches at home in the past four seasons (2015, 2019, 2023 and 2024), where they played all their home matches at Chepauk, losing five alone this time rings alarm bells.&nbsp;
"It's surprising, isn't it, to lose so many games at home," he said. "Other teams are getting better at playing at Chepauk as well... the dew's played a bit of a factor too, making it easier to bat second. But I think it comes down to the way we've played in general, too many mistakes with bat, ball, and in the field.
"It's something that's hurt us because we love playing in front of our home fans, and they turn up in great numbers and support us every time, and we love to have big wins in front of them. So it has been disappointing certainly to lose games at home,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>Motivation remains</h2>
Given it&rsquo;s never easy to keep the squad motivated if the team has nothing to look forward to, Hussey revealed Yellow Army is still motivated to end the season well and perhaps cause a few upsets.
"There's a lot of motivation in the squad. Plus, they're a very proud group. We're very proud to play for CSK. Massive fan base, and so you want to put in good performances to please the fans as well. I think the players really understand their responsibility and give 100% effort for every single match.
"It's a great opportunity for some guys to get a chance to play in the IPL. Hopefully, they can grab their chances and shore up their spot in the squad for the next few years. That's probably it. A few wins and a few players who have taken their opportunities that would be fantastic by the end of the season," he said.

Chennai is languishing at the bottom of the points table with just four points in ten contested matches, while the RCB is sitting in the top half. Sports, Cricket

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are out of the IPL 2025 playoff race, but still have plenty riding on them. Facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a marquee away clash on Saturday (May 3) in Bengaluru, they would aim to make it Even Stevens this time, having already lost to them at home earlier. CSK batting coach Michael Hussey said the team will not lower its guard despite a dismal run this season. Chennai is languishing at the bottom of the points table with just four points in ten contested matches, while the RCB is sitting in the top half, having won seven games and closing in on the top-four berth. RCB has all to play for in its quest for a maiden IPL title, but if CSK can work on ‘specifics’, which Hussey didn’t shed too much light on, they can cause an upset, keeping the race for the playoffs alive. "We're certainly not going to panic and throw everything out just because it hasn't gone well this year," Hussey said ahead of the RCB clash. "But we definitely need to tidy up on a few areas. There's been lots of conversations...it's given us a really clear view on what we need to look at for next season." Meanwhile, Chennai’s IPL success has always had everything to do with their win record at Chepauk, something that was the difference this time. Considering they lost just seven matches at home in the past four seasons (2015, 2019, 2023 and 2024), where they played all their home matches at Chepauk, losing five alone this time rings alarm bells. "It's surprising, isn't it, to lose so many games at home," he said. "Other teams are getting better at playing at Chepauk as well... the dew's played a bit of a factor too, making it easier to bat second. But I think it comes down to the way we've played in general, too many mistakes with bat, ball, and in the field. "It's something that's hurt us because we love playing in front of our home fans, and they turn up in great numbers and support us every time, and we love to have big wins in front of them. So it has been disappointing certainly to lose games at home,” he continued. Motivation remains Given it’s never easy to keep the squad motivated if the team has nothing to look forward to, Hussey revealed Yellow Army is still motivated to end the season well and perhaps cause a few upsets. "There's a lot of motivation in the squad. Plus, they're a very proud group. We're very proud to play for CSK. Massive fan base, and so you want to put in good performances to please the fans as well. I think the players really understand their responsibility and give 100% effort for every single match. "It's a great opportunity for some guys to get a chance to play in the IPL. Hopefully, they can grab their chances and shore up their spot in the squad for the next few years. That's probably it. A few wins and a few players who have taken their opportunities that would be fantastic by the end of the season," he said.

IPL 2025: Hussey reveals CSK not ready to drop guard against RCB despite dismal run

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side&rsquo;s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals</a> on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.
Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL&rsquo;s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-from-bad-to-worse-ipl-slap-hefty-fine-on-lsg-captain-rishabh-pant-for-slow-over-rate-against-mi-9008556" rel="dofollow">From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI</a>&nbsp;
RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC&rsquo;s run.
Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi&rsquo;s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs.
<h2>Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi</h2>
Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB&rsquo;s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage.&nbsp;
Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB&rsquo;s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.&nbsp;

After a win over DC, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side’s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts Delhi Capitals on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in IPL 2025. Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL’s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Also read | From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC’s run. Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi’s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs. Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB’s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage. Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB’s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.

Kohli, Krunal power RCB to IPL’s first in crucial away win in Delhi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> hit an unbeaten 73 as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> avenged their last game&rsquo;s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.
The RCB won the toss and elected to field first. Following a crisp start from the PBKS openers, all-rounder Krunal Pandya broke the stand in his first over, removing the dangerous Priyansh Arya out on 22. Two overs later, he removed gloveman Prabhsimran on 33 before Romario Shepherd dismissed Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer cheaply on six.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-pakistani-fan-filmed-watching-ipl-game-while-attending-live-psl-match-video-goes-viral-8982813" rel="dofollow">Pakistani fan filmed watching IPL game while attending live PSL match &ndash; Video goes viral</a>
Batter Nehal Wadhera was the next to depart, run out on just five, with PBKS reeling at 73 for four at one stage.&nbsp;
Josh Inglis and Shashank Singh stitched a 36-run stand for the fifth wicket before Punjab lost two quick wickets. With Shashank and Marco Jansen at the crease, Punjab expected to go big with the score; however, a tight display of death bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood restricted PBKS to 157 for six in 20 overs.
For the RCB, spinners Krunal and Suyash Sharma returned with two wickets each.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pq6iwu-68ls5w6f-vrmwrzhv">
I.C.Y.M.I On Target 🎯 Suyash Sharma's twin strikes that put <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> in front ✌ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX">https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/AaENClNFCk">pic.twitter.com/AaENClNFCk</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913923325111488707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Virat, the star for RCB</h2>
Virat Kohli is back among the runs. After getting out early against Punjab Kings in the previous game, Kohli starred for his team in the away clash, hitting his 67th IPL fifty - the most ever and guiding his team home with seven wickets remaining.&nbsp;
Arshdeep Singh dismissed Phil Salt early on one, bringing Devdutt Padikkal to the crease, with the pair adding 103 runs for the second wicket. Padikkal&rsquo;s dismissal on 61 gave the hosts little hope, but captain Rajat Patidar&rsquo;s brief knock squashed that. The skipper also got out on 12, but Kohli had done the damage by then, hitting seven fours and a six in his 54-ball 73.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pq66cf-zopq0xej-chsapcji">
Jitesh Sharma dials 6⃣ to seal it in style 🙌 Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 73*(54) in yet another chase 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> secure round 2⃣ of the battle of reds ❤ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/6htVhCbltp">https://t.co/6htVhCbltp</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/6dqDTEPoEA">pic.twitter.com/6dqDTEPoEA</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913948999310078388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
His unbeaten knock helped him enter the top three batters with the most runs thus far this season.&nbsp;

Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 73 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) avenged their last game’s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in IPL 2025 on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches. The RCB won the toss and elected to field first. Following a crisp start from the PBKS openers, all-rounder Krunal Pandya broke the stand in his first over, removing the dangerous Priyansh Arya out on 22. Two overs later, he removed gloveman Prabhsimran on 33 before Romario Shepherd dismissed Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer cheaply on six. Also read | Pakistani fan filmed watching IPL game while attending live PSL match – Video goes viral Batter Nehal Wadhera was the next to depart, run out on just five, with PBKS reeling at 73 for four at one stage. Josh Inglis and Shashank Singh stitched a 36-run stand for the fifth wicket before Punjab lost two quick wickets. With Shashank and Marco Jansen at the crease, Punjab expected to go big with the score; however, a tight display of death bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood restricted PBKS to 157 for six in 20 overs. For the RCB, spinners Krunal and Suyash Sharma returned with two wickets each. I.C.Y.M.I On Target 🎯 Suyash Sharma's twin strikes that put #RCB in front ✌ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX#TATAIPL | #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/AaENClNFCk — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 Virat, the star for RCB Virat Kohli is back among the runs. After getting out early against Punjab Kings in the previous game, Kohli starred for his team in the away clash, hitting his 67th IPL fifty - the most ever and guiding his team home with seven wickets remaining. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Phil Salt early on one, bringing Devdutt Padikkal to the crease, with the pair adding 103 runs for the second wicket. Padikkal’s dismissal on 61 gave the hosts little hope, but captain Rajat Patidar’s brief knock squashed that. The skipper also got out on 12, but Kohli had done the damage by then, hitting seven fours and a six in his 54-ball 73. Jitesh Sharma dials 6⃣ to seal it in style 🙌 Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 73*(54) in yet another chase 👏@RCBTweets secure round 2⃣ of the battle of reds ❤ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/6htVhCbltp#TATAIPL | #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/6dqDTEPoEA — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 His unbeaten knock helped him enter the top three batters with the most runs thus far this season.

IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three

Rcb, News on Rcb, stories on Rcb, articles on Rcb, Rcb stories at Wion, Rcb news, Rcb latest news