RCB Reaches IPL Final for First Time Since 2016, Thanks to Bowling and Salt

RCB Storm into IPL Final After Dismantling PBKS Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cruised into their first IPL final since 2016 with a ruthless performance, bundling Punjab Kings (PBKS) out for just 101 on a pitch offering seam and extra bounce. The RCB fast bowlers set the tone early, relentlessly attacking with hard lengths as PBKS batters refused to temper their aggression, ultimately collapsing under pressure. The pace attack claimed seven wickets, while legspinner Suyash Sharma took advantage of poor shot selection and unreadable wrong’uns to grab three more. Despite the pitch offering even more movement and bounce in the second innings, Phil Salt ensured the chase was never in doubt. He tore into the PBKS attack during the powerplay, racing to his fastest IPL fifty in just 23 balls. With 61 runs coming in the first six overs—even including a rare wicket-maiden—Salt all but sealed the game early. RCB completed the chase with ten overs to spare, underlining their dominance and securing a long-awaited return to the IPL final. Match Summary Punjab Kings (PBKS) – 101 all out (16.3 overs) Top Scorer: [Insert if known] RCB Pacers: Combined for 7 wickets with relentless hard-length bowling Suyash Sharma: 3 wickets with clever leg-spin, exploiting poor shot selection PBKS crumbled under pressure on a surface with extra bounce and seam movement. Their aggressive approach backfired as RCB’s bowlers maintained discipline and control throughout. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – 104/0 (10.0 overs) Phil Salt: 50* (23 balls) – Fastest IPL fifty for him Powerplay Runs: 61, including a wicket-maiden Chase completed with 10 overs to spare Despite worsening conditions for batting, Phil Salt launched a brutal assault in the powerplay, dismantling PBKS’s bowling attack and sealing a one-sided win. Key Highlights RCB enter their first IPL final since 2016 PBKS bowled out for 101 – one of the lowest totals in IPL Playoff history Salt’s fireworks overshadowed a tough batting surface