Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) registered a comprehensive 7-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 37 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, held at the New Chandigarh Stadium.

After being defeated by PBKS in their previous encounter, RCB bounced back strongly, led by clinical performances with both bat and ball. Skipper Rajat Patidar opted to bowl first, and despite a brisk start by PBKS, who reached 62/1 at the end of the powerplay, RCB’s bowlers regained control in the middle overs. Krunal Pandya (2/25) and Suyash Sharma (2/26) dismantled the PBKS middle order, while debutant Romario Shepherd claimed a crucial wicket to restrict the hosts to 157/6.

Accordingly, in response, RCB lost opener Phil Salt early, but a dominant 103-run second-wicket partnership between Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal ensured a smooth chase. Padikkal scored a brisk 61 off 35 balls, his first half-century of the season while Kohli remained unbeaten on 73 off 54 deliveries, marking his 67th 50+ score in IPL history.

RCB comfortably chased down the target in 18.5 overs, securing two vital points as the tournament headed into its second half.