The high-flying Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to lock horns with Gujarat Titans (GT) in their third match of IPL 2025 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on April 2. With both teams coming off commanding wins, this clash promises to be an exciting battle between two formidable sides aiming to solidify their position in the points table.
RCB, currently leading the standings, have been in red-hot form, securing a dominant 50-run victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their last outing. Rajat Patidar’s well-compiled 51-run knock played a crucial role in their win, while their bowling unit displayed excellent discipline. Playing at home, RCB will look to capitalize on their momentum and delight their passionate fans with another commanding performance.
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On the other hand, the Gujarat Titans find themselves at fourth place, having had a mixed start to the season. After stumbling in their opening match, they bounced back strongly with a 36-run victory over Mumbai Indians, courtesy of Sai Sudharsan’s fluent 63-run innings. With confidence restored, GT will aim to put RCB under pressure in their own backyard and climb higher in the standings.
As two power-packed teams prepare for battle, some key player matchups could have a significant impact on the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
#1 Jos Buttler vs Bhuvneshwar Kumar
One of the most intriguing contests will be between the explosive Jos Buttler and the experienced swing specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar. While Bhuvneshwar holds the record for the most powerplay wickets in IPL history, Buttler has largely dominated their head-to-head encounters. The Englishman has amassed 61 runs off 53 deliveries against Bhuvneshwar in the IPL, falling to him only twice. With a strike rate of 115.09 in this matchup, Buttler has shown great patience against the seamer, and it remains to be seen if Bhuvneshwar can turn the tide in his favor.
#2 Phil Salt vs Kagiso Rabada
RCB’s top-order dynamo, Phil Salt, has been in scintillating form, providing his team with explosive starts. His quickfire 56 off just 31 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders set the tone for their batting dominance. However, GT’s premier pacer, Kagiso Rabada, will be eager to challenge him with raw pace and precision. While Rabada has not been at his best this season, he has the ability to produce match-winning spells. The battle is set to be fierce, especially since Salt boasts a staggering strike rate of over 176 against Rabada in T20 cricket, having been dismissed by him only once.
#3 Virat Kohli vs Prasidh Krishna
Virat Kohli’s hunger for runs has been on full display this season. The former RCB captain has been in sublime touch, delivering a match-winning performance in their season opener. His ability to control the innings makes him the backbone of RCB’s batting lineup. However, Prasidh Krishna has been a tricky opponent for Kohli. The GT pacer has dismissed him three times in previous IPL encounters, restricting him to a modest strike rate of 109.84. With both players in good form, this head-to-head battle could be pivotal in shaping the contest.
