IPL 2025: How RCB Can Overtake PBKS and Finish at the Top of the Points Table

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are in a strong position in IPL 2025, but they are not done yet. With one game left in the league stage, they still have a chance to finish on top of the points table. Their final match is against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday, May 27, at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.

Current Standings Before Final League Match

RCB currently have 17 points from 13 matches with a net run rate (NRR) of +0.255. Punjab Kings (PBKS), who lead the table, also have 17 points but a slightly better NRR of +0.372. Both teams have qualified for the playoffs, but a top-two finish gives a major advantage—two chances to reach the final.

What Does RCB Need To Finish No. 1?

RCB can jump to the top of the table, but it will depend on the result and margin of their win against LSG. Here’s how:

If RCB score 200 runs, they must win by at least 34 runs to overtake PBKS on NRR.

If RCB concede 200 runs, they will need to chase the target in 16.3 overs or fewer (i.e., with 21 balls to spare).

Any win will secure them a top-two finish. But to finish at number one, the win must be by a big margin as per the above calculations.

What If RCB Lose?

If RCB lose the game, they will remain third on the points table. This means they will play Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator on May 30 in Mullanpur. In that knockout match, the losing team gets eliminated, while the winner moves to Qualifier 2 to fight for a spot in the final.

RCB’s fate is still in their hands. A strong performance against LSG could take them to the top of the table and give them a smoother path to their first IPL title.