As the Indian Premier League 2025 approaches its climax, the 65th encounter promises excitement as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on May 23 at 7:30 pm. This match holds different stakes for both sides—RCB has already punched their ticket to the playoffs, while SRH finds themselves out of contention.
Current Team Form
RCB has shown consistent form throughout the season, winning 8 out of their 12 matches, and currently holds the second spot on the points table with 17 points. In contrast, SRH has struggled, securing only 4 wins in 12 games and sitting in eighth place with 9 points. Despite the contrasting fortunes, the upcoming game is expected to showcase some fierce individual contests.
Key Player Matchups to Watch
1. Abhishek Sharma vs Yash Dayal
Abhishek Sharma has been a rare bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming SRH batting lineup this season. He has regularly challenged opposition bowlers with his aggressive intent. A notable contest to watch will be between him and Yash Dayal, one of RCB’s promising pacers.
In their previous IPL encounters, Abhishek has scored 26 runs off 19 balls against Yash Dayal, striking at over 136. However, Dayal has managed to dismiss the SRH opener twice, indicating a battle where both players have had their moments.
2. Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins
Virat Kohli, RCB’s linchpin and one of the most reliable performers this season, continues to captivate fans with his consistent scoring. In stark contrast, Pat Cummins, the captain of SRH, has had a tough season both with the ball and in terms of leadership.
Kohli has shown clear dominance over Cummins in previous matchups. He has scored 36 runs off 24 deliveries without being dismissed by the Australian pacer. With Kohli in red-hot form, this duel could significantly shape the outcome of the match.
3. Heinrich Klaasen vs Krunal Pandya
Heinrich Klaasen has not had the kind of impact SRH would have hoped for this season. Known for his explosive middle-order hitting, Klaasen has struggled to find rhythm and consistency. However, with little to lose in the remaining games, he could go on the offensive in this match.
Facing him will be Krunal Pandya, who has kept things tight with his left-arm spin. In their IPL face-offs, Klaasen has managed only 3 runs in 6 deliveries against Pandya, with a strike rate of just 50. This stat highlights Pandya’s upper hand, and this face-off could be crucial in restricting SRH’s scoring in the middle overs.
Conclusion
Although Sunrisers Hyderabad is no longer in the playoff race, their match against RCB still holds importance—especially in terms of individual pride and team momentum. For Bangalore, it’s a chance to fine-tune strategies before the playoffs, while SRH will look to end their season on a high. With intriguing player matchups on the cards, fans can expect an action-packed contest in Lucknow.
