Table of Contents
The much-anticipated 34th match of the IPL 2025 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium witnessed a delayed start owing to persistent rainfall. As a result, the match was reduced to 14 overs per side, but the shortened format only added to the intensity and drama.
After winning the toss, Punjab Kings skipper Shryeas Iyer opted to bowl first, banking on early movement and overhead conditions to challenge RCB’s powerful top order. The decision paid off almost instantly.
Arshdeep Singh dismantles RCB’s top order
PBKS pacer Arshdeep Singh delivered a dream start for the visitors. In a fiery opening over, he dismissed Phil Salt on just the fourth ball. Salt went for an aggressive shot, but could only manage a top-edge. Josh Inglis, stationed at short square leg, confidently called for it and completed a safe catch using both gloves. The real turning point, however, came in Arshdeep’s second over. On the fourth delivery of the third over of RCB’s innings, he struck again – this time removing the iconic Virat Kohli.
Marco Jansen’s spectacular catch ends Virat Kohli’s stay
Although it was Arshdeep’s delivery that sent Kohli back to the pavilion, the moment truly belonged to Marco Jansen, whose athleticism and composure turned a half-chance into a highlight of the tournament. As Kohli attempted an extravagant front-foot pull to a short-of-length delivery angling across him, he mistimed it completely. The ball took a top-edge and seemed destined to land safely in the large open area behind mid-on. But Jansen, stationed at mid-on, reacted instantly.
He sprinted backwards at full speed, eyes never leaving the ball, adjusting his stride perfectly even as it dipped behind him. As the ball began to descend, Jansen extended his long arms and plucked the catch while still on the run. He tumbled to the ground upon completing the grab, but crucially, ensured the ball was secure all the way through the fall. It was a breathtaking display of athleticism and presence of mind — one that silenced the Bengaluru crowd and sent a clear message that PBKS were here to dominate.
Also READ: IPL 2025: Here’s why Glenn Maxwell is not playing in RCB vs PBKS game
Here is the video:
2️⃣ sharp catches 🫡
2️⃣ early strikes ✌Arshdeep Singh and with a solid start ⚡
Updates ▶ | |
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL)
