RCB edge CSK by 2 runs to top IPL 2025 table

KATHMANDU: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) climbed to the top of the IPL 2025 points table after a thrilling two-run victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-stakes clash on Saturday night.

With this win, RCB now sit firmly at the summit with 16 points, while CSK languish at the bottom with just four.

Chasing a daunting target of 214, Chennai fell just short, finishing on 211/5 despite valiant efforts from Ayu Manthre and Ravindra Jadeja.

CSK required 15 runs in the final over, but pacer Yash Dayal held his nerve brilliantly.

He conceded just two runs in the first three balls and delivered a crucial breakthrough by dismissing the legendary MS Dhoni.

A no-ball followed by a six and a free hit reignited hopes for CSK, especially with big-hitter Shivam Dube at the crease. However, Dayal maintained his composure, giving away only three runs in the last three balls to seal a thrilling win for RCB.

For Chennai, Ayu Manthre was the standout performer, scoring a blistering 94 off 48 balls, smashing nine boundaries and five sixes.

Jadeja added a gritty 77* but lacked support from the rest of the batting lineup, which ultimately cost CSK the match.

Earlier, RCB posted a formidable 213/5 after being put into bat.

The innings was powered by half-centuries from Jacob Bethell (55), Virat Kohli (62), and a breathtaking unbeaten knock from Romario Shepherd, who hammered 53* off just 14 balls. Shepherd’s carnage included six towering sixes and four boundaries, with 33 runs coming off a single over from Khaleel Ahmed.

RCB’s aggressive start saw them amass 71 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket, and a late flourish in the final two overs added 51 crucial runs.

Despite a commendable bowling effort from Matheesha Pathirana, who took three wickets, CSK couldn’t cross the finish line.

With this win, RCB’s playoff hopes have brightened considerably, while CSK now face an uphill battle to stay alive in the tournament.