In a thrilling display of cricketing prowess and personal emotion, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched a spot in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 with a breathtaking six-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday. Chasing a mammoth target of 228, RCB showcased their batting firepower, completing the chase with eight balls to spare. Amid the roaring celebrations at the stadium, a tender moment stole the spotlight as Virat Kohli and his wife, Bollywood star Anushka Sharma, exchanged flying kisses from the field to the stands, encapsulating the joy of the triumph.
The match, played at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, saw RCB’s batting lineup fire on all cylinders. Virat Kohli set the tone with a blistering 54 off just 29 balls, smashing six boundaries and three sixes. However, it was the unbeaten fifth-wicket partnership of 107 runs between Jitesh Sharma and Mayank Agarwal that turned the game in RCB’s favor. Jitesh played a match-defining knock of 85 off 33 balls, including nine fours and five towering sixes, while Mayank anchored the chase with a steady 41 off 23 deliveries. Their aggressive yet calculated approach dismantled LSG’s bowling attack, securing one of the most memorable chases in IPL history.
Earlier in the day, LSG, after being invited to bat first, posted a formidable 227 for three in their 20 overs. Skipper Rishabh Pant led from the front with a sensational unbeaten 118 off 61 balls, reaching his century in just 54 deliveries. His innings was studded with 12 fours and seven sixes, making him the standout performer for LSG. Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh provided valuable support with a quickfire 67 off 37 balls, ensuring LSG set a daunting target. Despite their heroics, LSG’s bowlers couldn’t defend the total against RCB’s relentless batting onslaught.
This victory has propelled RCB to the second spot in the IPL 2025 points table, setting up an exciting Qualifier 1 clash against table-toppers Punjab Kings on Thursday. Meanwhile, the playoff race continues to heat up with Gujarat Titans facing off against Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator on Friday. The stakes couldn’t be higher as teams vie for a spot in the IPL final.
Beyond the on-field drama, it was the heartfelt exchange between Virat and Anushka that captured the imagination of fans worldwide. As Kohli looked up to the stands after the winning runs were scored, Anushka, dressed in RCB’s signature red and gold, beamed with pride and blew kisses to her husband. Kohli reciprocated with equal affection, creating a viral moment that transcended the game itself. This isn’t the first time the power couple has melted hearts—Anushka has been a constant source of support for Kohli throughout his illustrious career, often seen cheering passionately from the stands.
As RCB gears up for the next challenge, this victory over LSG will serve as a massive confidence booster. With Kohli in fine form and the middle order stepping up when it mattered most, the team looks poised to make a strong bid for the IPL 2025 title. For now, though, fans will cherish both the record-breaking chase and the beautiful personal touch that made this night truly unforgettable.