Tim David’s Blazing 50* Lifts RCB Out of Trouble Amid Dramatic Collapse Against Punjab Kings
Tim David emerged as the lone warrior for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, smashing an unbeaten half-century as RCB crumbled to 95/9 in their 14-over innings against Punjab Kings. His clean hitting was the only highlight in an otherwise forgettable outing for RCB.

Key Highlights:
Tim David showcased why he remains one of the most dangerous finishers in T20 cricket as he powered his way to a sensational unbeaten 50 off 26 balls in the face of a complete top-order collapse during RCB vs PBKS in IPL 2025. On a night when no other RCB batter crossed 25, David stood tall and alone — taking the attack back to the bowlers with composed aggression and sharp match awareness.
David’s Innings: Calm Under Pressure, Explosive on Execution
Walking in at 42/6 in the 8th over, David inherited a crisis that had already seen Kohli, Salt, Livingstone, and Patidar fall cheaply. But unlike the rest, the Australian powerhouse assessed the pitch and opposition bowling meticulously.
- Strike Rate: 192.30
- Fours/Sixes: 5 fours and 4 sixes
- Key Partnerships: Added 21 with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, then an unbeaten 32 with Josh Hazlewood
- Boundary Zones: Targeted deep midwicket and long-off consistently, using his long reach and muscle power
“He soaked pressure, targeted weak links, and ensured RCB had something defendable. In 14-over matches, this kind of cameo is gold,” noted a Cricbuzz analyst.
RCB Collapse: David the Lone Bright Spot
As wickets fell around him — Jitesh, Krunal, Bhandage, and Yash Dayal all falling in quick succession — David refused to retreat. Instead, he counter-punched by going after Harpreet Brar and Xavier Bartlett in the final overs, lifting RCB from 63/9 to 95/9.
The last 3 overs yielded 32 runs, 28 of which came from David’s bat. Without his finishing flourish, RCB might have been bundled out under 80.
What Sets Tim David Apart?
- Situational Awareness: He didn’t attack from ball one, choosing instead to absorb pressure and capitalize later.
- Hitting Zones: Unlike many big-hitters, David doesn’t rely solely on leg-side power. He pierced gaps over covers and mid-off with finesse.
- Mental Toughness: In a high-pressure game shortened by rain and marred by early wickets, he held his nerve when experienced players didn’t.
“Tim David’s 50* today is more valuable than most centuries. The context makes it exceptional,” tweeted former Aussie cricketer Michael Hussey.
Impact on the Match and the Tournament
David’s knock not only gave RCB a glimmer of hope but also injected much-needed life into a dead-looking innings. With PBKS needing 96 to win, a couple of early wickets could swing the momentum — thanks to David’s back-end blitz.
RCB’s playoff campaign has been inconsistent, and David’s performance may well earn him a promotion up the order in upcoming games, especially in high-risk chases or compressed formats.
Fantasy Cricket Fallout: David Delivers
For fantasy players, David’s knock was a jackpot:
- Points Earned: 74+ fantasy points in most platforms
- High Ownership in Grand Leagues: Expected to rise after this match
- Next Matches Outlook: A top fantasy pick if promoted to No. 5 or even higher
What This Means Going Forward
Tim David’s fearless brand of cricket could be the blueprint for RCB in tight games ahead. His ability to counter-attack under pressure brings balance to a batting line-up that has often struggled after the powerplay.
If RCB are to stay alive in the IPL 2025 playoff race, they may have to build more around their most in-form finisher.
Disclaimer
This is a sponsored post in partnership with Cricbuzz. Fantasy performance insights, player analysis, and projections are editorial and informational in nature. Always play responsibly.
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