Playoff-bound RCB put LSG in to bat first in final attempt for top two finish

Royal Challengers Bengaluru elected to bowl first against the inconsistent Lucknow Super Giants, eyeing a crucial victory in their final IPL 2025 league-stage encounter on Tuesday. With a top-two finish within reach, RCB must approach the contest with both caution and conviction, especially as the hosts will be eager to end their underwhelming campaign on a high.

The playoff equation took a dramatic turn following Gujarat Titans` successive defeats, paving the way for RCB, currently third on the table with 17 points, to aim for a coveted top-two position, something they haven`t achieved since 2016. Securing a top-two spot is highly significant in the IPL format, as it grants teams two chances to reach the final. The first and second-placed teams play in Qualifier 1, with the winner going directly to the final, while the loser gets another opportunity in Qualifier 2 against the winner of the Eliminator (played between the third and fourth-placed sides).

With Mumbai Indians (16 points) set to face Punjab Kings (17 points) later in the evening, RCB’s margin for error is razor-thin. A defeat could see either of those teams leapfrog them, while a win keeps their destiny in their own hands.

Bengaluru entered the mid-season break in scintillating form, having notched up four consecutive wins before the league paused due to the India-Pakistan military standoff. That 10-day interruption, however, appears to have impacted their rhythm.

Since the tournament resumed, RCB have struggled to regain their spark. One match was abandoned due to rain, and they then slumped to a 42-run defeat at the hands of Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their most recent victory came on May 3, and signs of rust were clearly visible in their latest outing.

Adding to the challenge, Lucknow Super Giants are coming off a confidence-boosting victory against Gujarat Titans. Despite being out of playoff contention, LSG dismantled the Titans with authority and will be keen to carry that momentum into their final appearance of the season. With no pressure on their shoulders, they pose a dangerous threat as spoilers.

As RCB take the field at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A top-two finish could drastically improve their chances of finally clinching their maiden IPL title, but to get there, they must first overcome a Lucknow side eager to finish with pride.

This article first appeared on Mid Day