Orange and Purple Power: Historic Domination Unfolds for RCB

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have emerged as the team to beat in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. With a commanding six-wicket victory over the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday, RCB not only secured their seventh win of the campaign but also ascended to the top of the points table. This triumph was bolstered by standout performances from Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya, who forged a crucial 119-run partnership, and Josh Hazlewood, whose consistent wicket-taking prowess has earned him the Purple Cap.

Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya put up a show

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Kohli and Pandya Anchor the Chase

In their recent match against DC, RCB faced a target of 163 runs on a challenging, two-paced pitch. After early setbacks, the experienced duo of Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya steadied the innings. Kohli contributed a measured 51 runs, while Pandya remained unbeaten with a fluent 73 off 47 balls. Their partnership exemplified the importance of adaptability and reading game situations, especially on difficult surfaces. Kohli emphasized the need for building solid partnerships and rotating the strike, stating, “You need to have professionalism, to read the situation and try and get into a position where you can start dominating the bowlers.”

Kohli and Krunal hugging each other postmatch

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“People sometimes forget — it’s not just about big shots. It’s about assessing conditions, understanding the bowlers, and executing the plan with calmness. Partnerships win games.”

Hazlewood’s Purple Patch

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has been a revelation for RCB this season. After overcoming injury setbacks, Hazlewood has reclaimed his form, leading the wicket-taking charts with 18 wickets in 10 matches. His recent performance against DC, where he took 2 for 36, was instrumental in restricting the opposition to a manageable total. Virat Kohli lauded Hazlewood’s contributions, remarking, “We all know the world-class bowler Josh has been… there’s a reason why he has the purple cap on his head.”

Josh Hazlewood is the leading wicket taker at this year's TATA IPL

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Strategic Brilliance and Team Cohesion

RCB’s ascent to the top of the table is not solely due to individual brilliance but also strategic acumen and team cohesion. The management’s decisions, such as promoting Krunal Pandya up the batting order, have paid dividends. Additionally, the team’s ability to adapt to varying pitch conditions and opposition strategies has been commendable. The bowlers, including Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hazlewood, have consistently delivered, ensuring that the batting unit has manageable targets to chase.

RCB players including skipper Patidar, Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have all shown great cohesion among themselves at the IPL this year

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What Lies Ahead: Can RCB Go All the Way?

With their current form, RCB has positioned themselves as strong contenders for the IPL 2025 title. However, the tournament is far from over, and maintaining consistency will be key. Their upcoming fixture against the Chennai Super Kings will be a litmus test of their championship credentials. If RCB continues to play with the same intensity and strategic clarity, they stand a strong chance of clinching their maiden IPL title.