By Sandhya Chouhan 
RCB vs CSK 3May IPL 2025: Bengaluru Edges Chennai in a Nail-Biting Finish
The IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was a thriller that kept fans on the edge of their seats. In a match that came down to the final ball, RCB clinched a dramatic two-run victory, boosting their playoff hopes. Let’s dive into the highlights, key performances, and what this means for both teams in the tournament.
Virat Kohli: A High-Scoring Encounter
RCB, led by captain Rajat Patidar, posted a formidable 213/5 in their 20 overs after CSK won the toss and opted to bowl. The innings was powered by explosive contributions from Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethel, and Romario Shepherd. Kohli’s 62 off 33 balls, laced with five fours and five sixes, set the tone, while Bethel’s 55 off 33 provided a solid start with a 97-run opening stand. Shepherd’s unbeaten 53 off just 14 balls, including six sixes and four fours, gave RCB the late fireworks they needed.
CSK’s chase of 214 was equally gripping. Ayush Mhatre’s 94 off 48 balls and Ravindra Jadeja’s unbeaten 77 off 45 kept them in the hunt. A 114-run partnership between the duo for the third wicket seemed to tilt the game in CSK’s favor. However, RCB’s bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi and Yash Dayal, held their nerve. Ngidi dismissed Mhatre and Dewald Brevis in the same over, while Dayal’s heroics in the final over, including an LBW dismissal of MS Dhoni, sealed the deal.
The Thrilling Final Over
With 15 runs needed off the last over, Yash Dayal bowled with remarkable composure. He conceded just two runs off the first two balls before trapping Dhoni LBW for 12 off 8. A no-ball six by Shivam Dube raised CSK’s hopes, but Dayal restricted the free hit to a single and allowed only one run each on the final two deliveries. CSK finished at 211/5, falling agonizingly short.
Standout Performances
- Virat Kohli (RCB): His 62 off 33, with a 29-ball fifty, was a masterclass in aggressive batting.
- Ayush Mhatre (CSK): The young batter’s 94 off 48, including a 25-ball fifty, nearly stole the show.
- Ravindra Jadeja (CSK): His unbeaten 77 off 45, with a 29-ball fifty, showcased his all-round brilliance.
- Romario Shepherd (RCB): His 53* off 14, especially 33 runs off Khaleel Ahmed’s over, was a game-changer.
- Yash Dayal (RCB): His nerveless final over, dismissing Dhoni and defending 15, earned him the spotlight.
Impact on IPL 2025 Standings
This victory marked RCB’s eighth win in the season, bringing them closer to a playoff berth. With 14 points from 10 matches, Patidar’s team sits third on the points table. One more win could secure their spot in the top four. CSK, on the other hand, suffered their ninth loss, confirming their elimination from playoff contention. Despite valiant efforts from Jadeja and Mhatre, MS Dhoni’s side has struggled, winning only two of their 10 matches.
Head-to-Head and Venue Context
Historically, CSK leads RCB 21-12 in 35 IPL encounters. At M. Chinnaswamy, both teams have won five of their 11 meetings. RCB’s recent form against CSK, including a 50-run win earlier in IPL 2025, gave them the edge going into this match. The high-scoring nature of the venue favored both batting units, but RCB’s bowling discipline in crunch moments made the difference.
What’s Next for RCB and CSK?
RCB will look to maintain their momentum and lock in a playoff spot with consistent performances. Their batting firepower, led by Kohli and Shepherd, and a versatile bowling attack make them formidable contenders. For CSK, the focus shifts to rebuilding for the next season. With young talents like Mhatre showing promise, there’s hope for a stronger comeback, but their reliance on veterans like Dhoni and Jadeja needs reevaluation.
Why This Match Matters
This RCB-CSK clash wasn’t just about the result—it was a showcase of IPL’s unpredictable drama. From Kohli’s onslaught to Jadeja’s resilience and Dayal’s clutch bowling, the match had it all. For fans, it was a reminder of why the IPL remains the world’s most exciting T20 league.
FAQs
Who won the RCB vs CSK match in IPL 2025?
RCB defeated CSK by two runs in the 52nd match of IPL 2025 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
What was the final score of the RCB vs CSK match?
RCB scored 213/5 in 20 overs, while CSK managed 211/5, falling short by two runs.
Who were the top performers in the RCB vs CSK match?
Virat Kohli (62 off 33), Romario Shepherd (53* off 14), Ayush Mhatre (94 off 48), and Ravindra Jadeja (77* off 45) were the standout performers.
How did the final over unfold in the RCB vs CSK match?
CSK needed 15 runs in the last over. Yash Dayal dismissed MS Dhoni LBW, conceded a no-ball six, but restricted CSK to singles on the free hit and final balls, securing a two-run win.
What is RCB’s position in the IPL 2025 points table?
RCB is third with 14 points from 10 matches, needing one more win to nearly confirm a playoff spot.
Is CSK out of the IPL 2025 playoffs?
Yes, CSK has been eliminated from playoff contention after their ninth loss in 10 matches