source : BCCI
RCB’s rollercoaster innings and a spirited bowling fight weren’t enough to stop KL Rahul and Delhi Capitals (DC) from storming to a six-wicket win at the Chinnaswamy. Despite early dominance with the bat and ball, RCB were left ruing missed chances as Rahul’s unbeaten 93 stole the show in his home city. The loss marked RCB’s second consecutive home defeat, while DC notched their fourth straight victory in IPL 2025.
RCB started strong, smashing 53 in the first 3 overs, thanks to Phil Salt’s explosive hitting, including a 30-run over off Mitchell Starc. However, the middle overs saw a collapse, with Kuldeep Yadav and debutant Vipraj Nigam squeezing the run flow and taking key wickets. Tim David’s late blitz (37* off 20) salvaged a par total of 163/7, but it still felt light on a pitch assisting slower bowlers.
In reply, DC’s top order crumbled early, reeling at 67/4 after 11 overs. The required rate climbed dangerously, and RCB fans sensed a comeback brewing. But Rahul and Tristan Stubbs had other plans. The duo unleashed a brutal counterattack, adding 111 runs in just 6.5 overs, flipping the game on its head and silencing the crowd. Stubbs supported brilliantly with a quick 38*, but it was Rahul who owned the night.
Rahul, slow to start on a sticky pitch, exploded after the 11th over. He went from 29 off 29 to 93 off 53 with sheer power and precision. His 22-run assault on Hazlewood turned the tide completely. From crunching sixes to well-placed boundaries, Rahul’s knock oozed class and intent, ending the match with a six and an emotional celebration that showed just how much the win meant to him on his home turf.
RCB’s bowling showed heart especially in the powerplay—but they simply had no answer to Rahul’s second wind. With this loss, RCB remain winless at home this season, while DC further cemented their place as serious title contenders. If KL Rahul keeps this form, this might just be his redemption arc.
