Key Highlights:
Kohli, Rahul Set for High-Voltage Face-Off as DC Host RCB in Crucial IPL Clash
The iconic DC vs RCB rivalry returns to the Arun Jaitley Stadium in IPL 2025, with both Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru locked on 12 points. A playoff spot—and potentially a top-two finish—is on the line in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Virat Kohli’s Kotla Comfort and Consistency in 2025
Virat Kohli’s return to Kotla brings nostalgia and anticipation. His form this season has been exceptional—third on the Orange Cap list with 392 runs at an average of 65.33. He’s relished batting in Delhi, scoring 483 runs in 10 IPL innings here at an astonishing average of 69 and strike rate of 145.5.
Kohli’s runs often align with RCB victories, having contributed over 26% of the team’s total in their five wins this season. Unbeaten in five away games, RCB will be banking on Kohli to continue that form.
Rahul Reinvented: Delhi’s Aggression Engine
KL Rahul has emerged as DC’s batting lynchpin. The wicketkeeper-batter, who shifted to an aggressive T20 style, is the team’s top run-getter this season with 323 runs at a strike rate of 153.80. His 57* in the last outing showcased his new approach—decisive and impactful.
With Faf du Plessis returning from injury and supporting firepower from Karun Nair, Abishek Porel, and Tristan Stubbs, Delhi’s batting has the firepower to rival RCB.
DC vs RCB: Starc-Hazlewood Duel Headlines Bowling Battle
One of the most awaited subplots in this DC vs RCB fixture is the face-off between Australia’s pace giants—Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Both are proven match-winners and are expected to make early breakthroughs.
Delhi’s spin spearhead Kuldeep Yadav has also been a standout, with 12 wickets at an economy of 6.3, often breaking partnerships in the middle overs. RCB will rely on Krunal Pandya (also with 12 wickets) and the young Suyash Sharma to maintain control during crucial spells.
Team Form and Consistency
- Delhi Capitals Last 5: WLWLW
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru Last 5: WWLWL
While both teams have shown moments of brilliance, consistency has been elusive. With the tournament nearing its final leg, every match from here on carries increased weight.
Probable Playing XIs for DC vs RCB
Delhi Capitals (DC):
Abishek Porel (wk), Faf du Plessis, Karun Nair, KL Rahul, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Dushmantha Chameera
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):
Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma
Spotlight Players: Kuldeep and Krunal’s Spin Show
Both franchises have found value in their spin assets. Kuldeep Yadav has anchored DC’s middle overs with sharp turn and clever variations, going wicketless only once this season. On the other side, Krunal Pandya has been instrumental in RCB’s wins with his disciplined spin and timely breakthroughs.
Their battle for control in the middle overs could dictate the outcome of the DC vs RCB encounter.
What Happens Next
With DC vs RCB marking a pivotal fixture in the IPL 2025 calendar, a win could break the deadlock in the mid-table cluster and edge one side closer to a top-two finish. Delhi Capitals have momentum at home, while RCB’s away record is spotless.
For fans and teams alike, this isn’t just about points—it’s about setting the tone for the playoffs.
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