RCB Return to Action in Lucknow, Eye Top-Two Finish Despite Disruptions

After a two-week pause marked by rain, fixture uncertainty, and player reshuffles, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are finally set to resume their IPL 2025 campaign in Lucknow. The team, which had been riding high following a rare double over Chennai Super Kings, was halted on May 7 just before a scheduled clash with Lucknow Super Giants, as the tournament was temporarily suspended.

Since then, RCB have faced multiple hurdles — from abandoned matches to weather-related relocations — and have been left without a game for over 15 days. Their match against Kolkata Knight Riders was washed out last weekend, and their upcoming fixtures have now been moved to Lucknow, where they’ll play back-to-back games including one designated as a "home" match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

RCB have already secured a playoff spot, their fifth in six years, but are targeting a top-two finish for the first time since 2016. To do that, they likely need to win both remaining matches and hope Gujarat Titans or Punjab Kings slip up. Fortunately for them, their away record this season is flawless.

Meanwhile, SRH — already out of playoff contention — are focused on squad experimentation and building momentum for next season. They’ll be hoping for strong performances from their faltering top order, particularly Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma.

All eyes will also be on Virat Kohli, who is on the cusp of breaking David Warner’s record for the most IPL half-centuries, and on who RCB choose to slot into the No. 3 position with Devdutt Padikkal injured. The likely pick is Mayank Agarwal.

With conditions in Lucknow expected to favor bounce and turn, thanks to a red-soil pitch chosen by RCB, and both squads now nearly at full strength, Friday’s clash could be pivotal — not just for playoff positioning, but for regaining rhythm after an unusually long mid-season break.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.