IPL 2025: Jitesh Sharma’s Stunning 85 Guides RCB to Victory Over LSG

IPL 2025: Jitesh Sharma’s Blazing 85* Helps RCB Overhaul LSG’s 227 in Thrilling Win

In a high-octane clash that concluded the IPL 2025 league stage, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stunned Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) with a sensational chase. This was powered by an unbeaten 85 off just 33 balls from stand-in skipper Jitesh Sharma. Despite Rishabh Pant’s heroic 118 off 61 balls*, LSG couldn’t hold off RCB, who chased down 227 with six wickets and eight balls to spare.

Pant’s Century in Vain as LSG Post Mammoth 227/3

Rishabh Pant, who had a relatively quiet season, finally exploded with the bat when it mattered most—albeit too late for his side’s playoff hopes. The LSG captain smashed an unbeaten 118 off 61 deliveries, studded with 11 fours and 8 sixes, leading his team to an imposing 227/3.

Moreover, Pant was ably supported by Mitchell Marsh, who contributed a quickfire 67, thereby making life difficult for the RCB bowlers. Together, they stitched a dominant partnership that laid the perfect platform for a strong finish. However, while LSG had runs on the board, they ultimately lacked the killer instinct in defending them.

RCB’s Chase: Kohli Sets the Tone, Sharma Seals the Deal

Chasing 228 was never going to be easy; however, RCB came out with purpose. Virat Kohli, in his usual composed manner, anchored the start of the innings with a fluent 54 off 30 balls, giving the team a solid foundation.

Once Kohli departed, it was the duo of Jitesh Sharma and Mayank Agarwal who turned the game on its head. Sharma, leading in Faf du Plessis’s absence, showcased fearless intent and sublime timing. In fact, he smashed 85 not out off just 33 balls, propelling RCB forward. Meanwhile, Agarwal played the perfect support role, staying unbeaten on 41.

Consequently, the pair shared a match-winning century stand, taking the attack to every LSG bowler. From clever placement to powerful hitting, they dismantled the bowling with ease. As a result, RCB reached the target in just 18.4 overs, ending the league stage on a high.

Drama and Sportsmanship in the Final Overs

There was no shortage of drama. Sharma was caught off a no-ball by Vignesh Rathi, only to smash the very next delivery for six. Moments later, he was run out at the non-striker’s end. Nevertheless, in a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, Pant withdrew the appeal, allowing Sharma to continue his innings.

Indeed, it was a moment that not only showed respect between two fierce competitors but also highlighted the spirit of the game in the IPL.

Playoff Scenario: RCB to Face PBKS, MI Meet GT

With this thrilling victory, RCB secured second place in the league table and will now face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 at New Chandigarh on Thursday. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will clash in the Eliminator on Friday at the same venue.

On the other hand, despite Pant’s late-season brilliance, LSG bowed out of the tournament without making the playoffs.

Brief Scores

LSG: 227/3 in 20 overs
Rishabh Pant 118*, Mitchell Marsh 67
Best bowler: [RCB bowlers not specified in original text]

RCB: 230/4 in 18.4 overs
Jitesh Sharma 85*, Virat Kohli 54, Mayank Agarwal 41*, Phil Salt 30
Will O’Rourke 2/74

The final league match of IPL 2025 had everything fans could ask for—big runs, stunning chases, captaincy duels, and incredible sportsmanship. While Rishabh Pant’s ton will be remembered, it was Jitesh Sharma’s fiery knock that ultimately stole the show and sealed RCB’s place in the top two.

With playoffs set to begin, fans can undoubtedly expect more fireworks as the IPL 2025 title race intensifies.

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