Harshini 
RCB vs SRH: A Decisive Battle in IPL 2025
As IPL 2025 barrels toward the playoffs, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set for a pivotal clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday, May 23, at 7:30 PM IST. Originally planned for Bengaluru, the fixture was moved to the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow due to ongoing rains in Karnataka. This neutral venue adds an unpredictable twist to a game packed with high stakes.
What’s at Stake? – Points Table Dynamics
RCB sit 2nd on the IPL 2025 points table with 16 points from 11 matches and a healthy +0.482 net run rate. Victory would guarantee them a top-two finish, giving them a second shot at qualifying for the final.
In contrast, SRH are currently 8th with 7 points from 12 games and a dismal -1.192 NRR. While their playoff hopes are extinguished, pride and disrupting RCB’s campaign still fuel their fire.
Lucknow Pitch Report – Ekana’s Spin Web
The Ekana pitch has typically favored spinners and slower bowlers, offering inconsistent bounce and a sluggish outfield. Yet, in a recent clash, SRH chased down 200+ runs, indicating the wicket might be more balanced than it appears.
Batters must time the ball well, and powerplay efficiency could define the innings. Expect RCB to rely on their aggressive top order, while SRH may look to spin their way into contention.
Team News and Probable Line-ups
Royal Challengers Bengaluru(RCB):
- Injuries/Unavailability: Rajat Patidar is likely to return after recovering from a hand injury.
- Probable XI: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rasikh Salam, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma.
Sunrisers Hyderabad(SRH):
- Injuries/Unavailability: Travis Head tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game against LSG; his availability remains uncertain.
- Probable XI: Atharva Taide, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Kamindu Mendis, Aniket Verma, Nitish Reddy, Pat Cummins (c), Harshal Patel, Harsh Dubey, Zeeshan Ansari, Eshan Malinga.
Key Players to Watch
- Virat Kohli (RCB): With 505 runs in 11 matches, Kohli is among the top run-scorers this season, maintaining an average of 63.13.
- Abhishek Sharma (SRH): The young opener has amassed 373 runs in 12 innings, including a century, showcasing a strike rate of 192.27.
- Eshan Malinga (SRH): Despite playing only five games, Malinga has taken nine wickets, becoming SRH’s third-highest wicket-taker this season.
Head-to-Head Record
Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have faced off 24 times in IPL history, with SRH narrowly leading 13–11. However, recent momentum favors RCB, who have won 3 of the last 5 encounters. This rivalry has produced some thrilling contests, and another close battle is expected in IPL 2025.
Prediction & Strategy – Who Holds the Edge?
RCB’s red-hot form, depth in batting, and strong leadership give them a significant edge. If Kohli anchors and the pacers hit their lines, RCB should clinch this game and tighten their grip on a playoff advantage.
In this crucial IPL 2025 clash, RCB enter as firm favorites, driven by form, experience, and a strong playoff push. With Virat Kohli in sublime touch and bowlers firing at the death, they’ll look to dominate on Lucknow’s tricky surface. However, SRH have nothing to lose, and that freedom can be dangerous—especially if Abhishek Sharma or Klaasen fire early. The Ekana pitch might favor RCB’s slower bowlers, but a few explosive overs from SRH can flip the script. Expect a competitive encounter, but RCB are tipped to win and secure their top-two finish.
Still, SRH have the firepower to cause an upset—especially if Abhishek, Klaasen, or Cummins strike early.
Follow BiggSports News for all updates from the IPL 2025.
BiGG Author 
