Bengaluru, May 3, 2025:
In a high-voltage IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Virat Kohli lit up the Chinnaswamy Stadium with a blazing half-century that powered RCB past 120 runs within just 12 overs.
Virat Kohli’s Explosive Knock Sets the Stage
Opening the innings with authority, Virat Kohli hammered a sensational 62 off just 32 balls, smashing 8 boundaries and 2 sixes. His aggressive intent from the start gave RCB a strong start in this crucial encounter. Kohli reached his fifty in just 29 balls before being dismissed by Sam Curran, but not before he had done significant damage to CSK’s bowling attack.
RCB’s Batting Line-up Fires in Tandem
Kohli’s explosive knock was well supported by fellow opener Faf du Plessis and later by Rajat Patidar and Phil Salt, who kept the momentum going. At the 12-over mark, RCB had already crossed 120 runs, showing their batting dominance on a pitch offering little help to the bowlers.
RCB eventually posted a strong total of 196/7 in their 20 overs, thanks to powerful hitting at the death overs by Tim David and Dinesh Karthik.
CSK Struggle in Run Chase
Chasing 197, CSK never really looked in control. Rachin Ravindra was the only notable performer with 41 off 31 balls, while MS Dhoni tried to revive hopes with a quickfire 30. However, RCB’s bowling attack, led by Josh Hazlewood’s 3/21, was too good on the night.
CSK finished at 146/8 in 20 overs, losing the match by a big margin of 50 runs.
Key Highlights:
- Virat Kohli scored 62 off 32 balls
- RCB reached 120+ in 12 overs
- Josh Hazlewood took 3 wickets
- RCB beat CSK by 50 runs
Historic Win for RCB
This win marked a special moment for RCB, breaking their long-standing losing streak at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. It was their first win at the venue since 2008 — a 17-year wait finally ended in style.
