The IPL 2025 is entering a crucial phase as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Match 42 of the tournament. Scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST, this match will take place at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. With the playoffs race intensifying, both teams have different stakes riding on this contest.
Team Overview: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB have been one of the more consistent teams this season. With five wins in eight matches, they currently sit in third position on the points table. Their latest triumph came against Punjab Kings (PBKS) where they chased down 158 runs comfortably, thanks to the efforts of Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal.
Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB have found a solid rhythm. While their overall form is strong, their home record hasn’t been particularly impressive this season, which remains a slight concern going into this fixture.
Team Overview: Rajasthan Royals (RR)
The story for RR has been the opposite. With just two wins from eight matches, they are currently placed eighth on the points table. Their playoff hopes now depend on winning all of their remaining games. Despite a mid-season resurgence, the team couldn’t maintain momentum.
Riyan Parag, leading RR this season, has shown potential but has lacked support from senior players in crucial moments. A win against a top team like RCB could serve as a morale booster and turn their season around.
Match Details
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Match: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals, Match 42, IPL 2025
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Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
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Date & Time: Thursday, April 24, 2025, 7:30 PM (IST)
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Live Broadcast: JioStar Network Channels
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Live Streaming: JioHotstar (app and website)
Head-to-Head Record
RCB and RR have faced each other 33 times, with the following results:
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RCB Wins: 16
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RR Wins: 14
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No Result: 3
RR won the last encounter between the two sides on May 22, 2025.
Pitch Report
Traditionally known as a batting-friendly venue, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has not witnessed many high-scoring games this season. Chasing has been relatively easier here, and the toss-winning captain is likely to opt for bowling first.
Predicted Playing XIs
RCB:
Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal
Impact Player: Devdutt Padikkal
RR:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubham Dubey, Riyan Parag (c), Nitish Rana, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande
Impact Player: Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Key Players to Watch
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Virat Kohli (RCB): Anchoring the chase or setting up strong totals.
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Devdutt Padikkal (RCB): Has made big impacts as an Impact Player.
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Riyan Parag (RR): Needs a standout performance with bat and as captain.
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Wanindu Hasaranga (RR): Could play a vital role on a slowing track.
Match Prediction
RCB enter the contest as clear favorites, based on form and squad depth. However, with their home form under scrutiny and RR fighting for survival, an upset cannot be ruled out. Expect a close contest, but RCB are likely to edge it if their top order clicks again.
Prediction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win in a competitive match.
