The Indian Premier League IPL 2025 is hurtling towards its climax, and Match 65 promises to be a thrilling encounter as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This crucial fixture, originally scheduled for Bengaluru, has been moved to the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow due to adverse weather conditions in South India. Set for Friday, May 23, at 7:30 PM IST, this match holds significant implications, particularly for RCB’s playoff aspirations.
IPL 2025: RCB vs SRH – High Stakes Clash in Lucknow!
The Indian Premier League 2025 is hurtling towards its climax, and Match 65 promises to be a thrilling encounter as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This crucial fixture, originally scheduled for Bengaluru, has been moved to the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow due to adverse weather conditions in South India. Set for Friday, May 23, at 7:30 PM IST, this match holds significant implications, particularly for RCB’s playoff aspirations.
Sunrisers Hyderabad, on the other hand, are out of playoff contention. Having won only four games and lost seven, they will be playing for pride and aiming to spoil RCB’s push for a top-two spot. They come into this match on the back of a confidence-boosting six-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants, where their batters, particularly Abhishek Sharma, fired on all cylinders.
RCB vs SRH Head-to-Head: A Close Rivalry
In the IPL’s history, RCB and SRH have faced each other 24 times. The head-to-head record is closely contested, with SRH holding a slight edge with 12 wins to RCB’s 11, and one match ending in no result. In their last five encounters, RCB has the upper hand with a 3-2 record.
The Stakes: RCB Eye Top Two, SRH Look to Spoil the Party
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, led by Rajat Patidar, have already secured their playoff berth and are currently holding a strong second position in the points table with 17 points. Their aim will be to win this game and their remaining fixture to secure a top-two finish, which provides a crucial advantage in the playoffs. A recent victory against Chennai Super Kings by a narrow margin, despite a late surge from the opposition, showcased their fighting spirit.
RCB vs SRH Team News and Key Players
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): RCB will be looking to their consistent performers to deliver. Virat Kohli has been in exceptional form this season, leading the run charts for his team. His opening partnership with Phil Salt has often provided explosive starts. In a recent development, New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert has joined the RCB squad as a replacement for Jacob Bethell, who is leaving for England national duties after this match. While Seifert won’t be available for this game, it’s a piece of team news for their playoff journey.
RCB vs SRH Pitch Report: Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow
The BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow has proven to be a challenging pitch this season. The large dimensions of the ground often make hitting big boundaries difficult. While the average first-innings score here is around 167, teams aiming for a competitive total usually look to reach 180-190, considering the possibility of dew in the second innings. Historically, the pitch has offered something for both pacers and spinners, but generally favors a more measured approach to batting. Teams winning the toss often elect to bowl first, looking to exploit any dew factor later in the game.
RCB vs SRH Weather Report – Lucknow
The weather in Lucknow on Friday, May 23, is expected to be clear and ideal for a full game of cricket. There is a negligible possibility of rain throughout the match hours. Temperatures are likely to be pleasant in the evening, ensuring comfortable playing conditions for the players and a great spectacle for the fans.
RCB vs SRH Dream11 Prediction
Wicketkeeper: Heinrich Klaasen (SRH) Batsmen: Virat Kohli (RCB), Faf du Plessis (RCB), Abhishek Sharma (SRH), Rajat Patidar (RCB) All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell (RCB), Aiden Markram (SRH) Bowlers: Pat Cummins (SRH), T. Natarajan (SRH), Mohammed Siraj (RCB), Karn Sharma (RCB)
Captain Choice: Virat Kohli (RCB) Vice-Captain Choice: Abhishek Sharma (SRH)
Rationale for Dream11 Picks:
- Virat Kohli: Formidable run-scorer, crucial to RCB’s batting.
- Abhishek Sharma: Explosive opener, in great hitting form.
- Heinrich Klaasen: Power-hitter in the middle order.
- Rajat Patidar & Faf du Plessis: Consistent contributors for RCB.
- Glenn Maxwell & Aiden Markram: All-round utility and big-hitting ability.
- Pat Cummins & T. Natarajan: Key pacers for SRH.
- Mohammed Siraj & Karn Sharma: Important wicket-takers for RCB.
RCB vs SRH Match Prediction
Given RCB’s strong form and their motivation to secure a top-two finish, they will likely start as favorites. However, SRH’s recent win and their no-pressure approach could make them a dangerous opponent. The pitch in Lucknow might level the playing field somewhat, making it a contest between RCB’s batting depth and SRH’s unpredictable power. Ultimately, RCB’s greater momentum and playoff aspirations might just give them the edge in this encounter.
Predicted Winner: Royal Challengers Bengaluru
