RCB Look to Continue Super Away Run as RR Finally Return Home
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RCB Look to Continue Super Away Run as RR Finally Return Home
As the IPL 2025 season enters a crucial phase, two of the league’s most popular and unpredictable sides—Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR)—prepare to lock horns in a highly anticipated clash. This match isn’t just another game in the league; it’s a narrative of momentum versus homecoming, of form versus familiarity.
RCB: Red Hot on the Road
RCB have been one of the most consistent sides in away matches this season. Despite a mixed start, they’ve found their rhythm on the road, stringing together crucial wins that have kept them in contention for a top-four finish. Their batting lineup, led by the evergreen Virat Kohli, the explosive Faf du Plessis, and the unpredictable but dangerous Glenn Maxwell, has delivered under pressure.
Kohli, in particular, seems to have rediscovered his best form in IPL 2025. His unbeaten 113 against Rajasthan Royals in a previous encounter (IPL 2024) was a masterclass in timing and composure. Although RCB ended up on the losing side in that game due to a sensational century by Jos Buttler, the innings served as a reminder that Kohli is still one of the league’s most dominant forces.
RCB’s bowling has also shown signs of maturing. Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, and Karn Sharma have stepped up at key moments, helping the team defend totals and apply pressure in the middle overs. The combination of youth and experience is finally starting to click.
RR: Searching for Home Advantage
Rajasthan Royals come into this match with renewed hope. After a series of games away from home, they finally return to their fortress—Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd could provide the spark RR need to turn their season around.
RR’s campaign so far has been a mixed bag. While they’ve shown glimpses of brilliance, consistency has eluded them. Jos Buttler has continued to be their anchor at the top, while Sanju Samson has played some crucial cameos. However, it’s the bowling unit that often swings the pendulum for RR. The likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, and Ravichandran Ashwin can wreak havoc on any batting lineup, especially on spin-friendly home pitches.
Their previous win over RCB, where Buttler outshone Kohli with a match-winning century, gives them psychological advantage. But RR know that form is temporary and every game brings a new challenge.
Key Battles to Watch
- Virat Kohli vs Yuzvendra Chahal: Former teammates turned IPL foes, this battle could decide the middle overs. Kohli has struggled at times against leg-spin, and Chahal knows his game inside out.
- Jos Buttler vs Mohammed Siraj: Buttler’s aggressive starts can shift the game early. Siraj will be tasked with stopping the Englishman in his tracks during the powerplay.
- Glenn Maxwell vs Ravichandran Ashwin: A duel between two of the most unpredictable players in the league. Maxwell’s flair versus Ashwin’s experience will be one for the highlight reels.
What’s at Stake
For RCB, a win would not only keep their strong away record intact but also solidify their spot in the top half of the table. For RR, it’s about making a statement at home, regaining form, and pushing for a playoff spot. Both teams have tasted glory in flashes but are yet to show the consistency needed for a title run this season.
This isn’t just a game. It’s a battle of identity—RCB, the bold travelers, against RR, the regal returnees. Expect fireworks, drama, and possibly, a last-ball finish.
Predicted XIs:
RCB: Faf du Plessis (C), Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik (WK), Mahipal Lomror, Reece Topley, Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharma, Cameron Green, Vijaykumar Vyshak
RR: Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson (C & WK), Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Sen
Final Word:
With the playoff race heating up, this match could have massive implications. Can RCB continue their dream run away from home? Or will RR’s long-awaited return spark a home revival?
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