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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are having a tough time at home in IPL 2025. They have now lost three matches in a row at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. And interestingly, in each of these defeats, a former RCB player has played a major role in their downfall.
Is this just bad luck, or is RCB haunted by their ex-players?
Match Summary: RCB vs PBKS
In a rain-shortened game against Punjab Kings (PBKS), RCB chose not to include Devdutt Padikkal in their playing XII. Captain Rajat Patidar looked confused about the Impact Player rule and stuck with the same team.
The decision backfired. Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh struck early, removing Phil Salt in the first over. From there, the collapse began.
A Nightmare Start
RCB’s top order fell apart:
- Virat Kohli mistimed a pull shot.
- Jitesh Sharma and Krunal Pandya both got out trying to play attacking shots.
- Moisture on the pitch helped the fast bowlers, making life hard for the batters.
At 33/5 in 6.1 overs, RCB were already in deep trouble.
Manoj Bhandage’s Debut
With things going from bad to worse, RCB brought in Manoj Bhandage as their Impact Player. He had built a strong reputation in domestic cricket but this was his big moment.
Sadly, he could only face 4 balls before getting out LBW. RCB’s gamble failed.
The ‘Ex’ Factor Continue
This wasn’t the first time a former RCB player made a big impact this season:
- Mohammed Siraj (now playing for Gujarat Titans) helped defeat RCB in their first home game.
- KL Rahul, once a star in RCB’s 2016 squad, finished the match with style and claimed Chinnaswamy as “his ground.”
- And now, Yuzvendra Chahal, one of RCB’s biggest bowling heroes, returned with a bang for PBKS.
Chahal’s Sweet Revenge
Chahal, who took the most wickets for RCB at Chinnaswamy in his time, was released in the past without much explanation. He returned with a point to prove.
- He took key wickets with classic leg-spin.
- Dismissed Jitesh Sharma and Rajat Patidar with smart variations.
- Celebrated with passion, showing just how much it meant.
Tim David Fights Back
Tim David played a lone warrior role, scoring 50 off 26 balls. His efforts gave RCB a fighting total, though not a strong one.
RCB’s bowlers showed spirit and fought hard. But it wasn’t enough.
Final Thoughts
RCB’s batting has failed in all three home matches this season. Even though their bowling has looked good, the top-order collapse continues to cost them games.
More worrying is the trend: former RCB players returning to haunt them. Siraj, Rahul, and now Chahal have all delivered match-winning performances against their old team.
Is this just a coincidence, or is RCB paying the price for letting go of key players?
- RCB have lost 3 home matches in a row in IPL 2025.
- Each loss has featured a former RCB player playing a big role.
- RCB’s batting is under pressure, and the Impact Player strategy is being questioned.
- Time for RCB to rethink their plans before it’s too late.
