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Krunal Pandya, Kohli Rebuild RCB with Gritty Century Stand After Early Collapse

After slipping to 35/3 in the powerplay, Krunal Pandya and Virat Kohli steadied RCB with a composed 100-run partnership against Delhi Capitals.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru turned the tide in a tense IPL 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals, thanks to a resilient and tactical 100-run partnership between Krunal Pandya and Virat Kohli after a devastating powerplay collapse.

From a precarious 35/3 at the end of the powerplay, the duo batted with purpose and clarity, pacing the innings masterfully to bring RCB back into the contest during a chase of 163.


RCB’s Powerplay Woes

The innings began in disarray for RCB:

  • Jacob Bethell (12), Devdutt Padikkal (0), and Rajat Patidar (6) fell within the first six overs.
  • Powerplay score: 35/3 (6.0 overs), with Axar Patel striking twice and Karun Nair executing a stunning run-out.

Krunal Pandya’s Match-Turning Knock

Krunal, who had been promoted in the batting order, absorbed pressure initially before launching an assault on the spinners.

  • Fifty off 38 balls, including 2 fours and 4 sixes
  • First 50-run stand (with Kohli) came off 45 balls
  • Reached 56 runs at the second strategic timeout (16.0 overs)

His ability to rotate strike and take calculated risks against the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Chameera proved decisive.


Virat Kohli Anchors, Then Accelerates

While Krunal was the aggressor, Virat Kohli played the anchor role perfectly:

  • Fifty in 45 balls, with 4 boundaries
  • Took on a leadership role in consolidating RCB’s innings
  • Kept rotating the strike, hitting timely boundaries to relieve pressure

Their 100-run stand came in 75 balls, lifting RCB to 125/3 by 16 overs.


Match Highlights So Far

  • Ball change at 14.1 overs due to dew under IPL playing conditions
  • Delhi Capitals’ unsuccessful review at 7.4 overs against Krunal
  • RCB reached 100 in 13.3 overs and look well poised heading into the death overs

What This Means for the Chase

With just over 30 runs required in the final 4 overs, RCB have the upper hand. Kohli’s control and Krunal’s fearless hitting have ensured that Delhi Capitals’ early bowling heroics may go in vain if they can’t break the partnership soon.


Looking Forward

Whether this duo can finish what they started will define this match—and possibly RCB’s standing in the playoff race. But one thing is clear: Krunal Pandya has delivered a statement innings under pressure, and Virat Kohli continues to lead with calm intent.


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