Jitesh Sharma, the stand-in skipper for Royal Challengers, was no doubt the star of the match for his match-winning knocks. Surviving at least two dismissals against Lucknow Super Giants, the bloke stood unbothered and calmly reached the winning score, taking RCB to the Qualifier 1 match. Meanwhile, a shot of him went viral, where he was seen hitting a lofted straight drive against LSG's William O'Rourkee.
In the 17.4 over of the match, Will O'Rourke bowled a length delivery outside off stump to Jitesh Sharma. Jitesh, staying deep in his crease, lofted the ball powerfully over extra cover for four runs. And with that, RCB's chase was eased to one run a ball.
Watch the video here:
Read also:
Wicketkeepers Shine as RCB Beat LSG in High-Scoring Thriller
It was a game where wicketkeepers stole the show. RCB’s Jitesh Sharma and LSG’s Rishabh Pant turned the 70th match of IPL 2025 into a festival of sixes and fearless strokeplay. Lucknow posted a massive 227/3, thanks largely to their captain Pant, who hammered an unbeaten 118 off 61 balls. With 11 fours and 8 sixes, Pant single-handedly powered his side to a formidable total. He was well-supported by Mitchell Marsh, who struck a fiery 67 off 37.
In reply, Royal Challengers Bengaluru chased the target with 8 balls to spare, finishing at 230/4 in just 18.4 overs. While Virat Kohli smashed a 30-ball 54, it was RCB skipper and keeper Jitesh Sharma who sealed the deal. Jitesh played the knock of his life, slamming 85* off just 33 balls. He struck 8 fours and 6 sixes, and took apart LSG’s bowlers with authority. He was named both the Player of the Match and Cricinfo’s MVP for his breathtaking performance.
With this win, RCB not only chased down one of the highest totals this season but also confirmed their place in Qualifier 1. They will now face Punjab Kings on May 29 at Mullanpur.
For LSG, despite Pant's brilliant hundred, . O’Rourke had a forgettable outing, leaking 74 in his 4 overs—the most expensive spell of the season so far.
