Venue: Lucknow | Time: 4:00 PM IST | Date: May 27, 2025
The final league game of IPL 2025 has high stakes as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), currently third on the table, take on a rejuvenated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) who are out of playoff contention—but far from lacking motivation.
For RCB, a win today means a guaranteed top-two finish, which earns them a direct path to Qualifier 1 and a second shot at the final, should they stumble there. A loss, however, drops them to third—forcing them into a do-or-die Eliminator.
LSG, despite being out of the race, are a potential party-pooper. Having already stunned table-toppers Gujarat Titans last week, they’ll fancy their chances again, especially with some of their under-fire stars showing late-season resurgence.
Form & Momentum
RCB – LWWWW
Before a hiccup against Sunrisers Hyderabad, RCB were flying with four straight wins. Their top-order, led by Kohli and Salt, has been consistent, while the bowling—especially with Hazlewood’s return—gets a significant boost.
LSG – WLLLL
The Super Giants finally snapped a four-game skid by beating Gujarat Titans. The emergence of Mitchell Marsh, Pooran’s middle-order fireworks, and the raw pace of Will O’Rourke have turned heads.
Betting Insights
Match Winner
RCB to Win: With a top-two finish on the line and Hazlewood back, RCB have more to play for and a deeper bowling unit. However, beware the spoiler potential of LSG.
LSG Upset: Great option for value hunters. LSG’s fearlessness could expose an RCB middle-order that lacks firepower without Tim David.
Recommendation: Live betting might be ideal—RCB to dominate early, but if LSG sets a good total or gets early wickets, hedge your bets.
Top Batter Markets
RCB – Virat Kohli
Kohli is 24 away from the landmark of 9000 runs for RCB across formats. Big games bring big performances, and in high-stakes matches, few rise like Virat. Consider backing him for Top RCB Batter.
LSG – Mitchell Marsh
After a century against GT, Marsh is in menacing form and has the second-most sixes in the powerplay. If the pitch plays true, Marsh can dominate the opening overs again.
Top Bowler Picks
RCB – Josh Hazlewood
Fresh off a rehab stint, Hazlewood’s return bolsters RCB’s powerplay and death overs. Back him for Top RCB Bowler – especially on a pitch that’s seen some seam assistance.
LSG – Will O’Rourke
Four wickets in two games and a tall frame to generate bounce—O’Rourke is LSG’s X-factor with the ball. If LSG bowls first, consider a punt on him for Top LSG Bowler.
Player Specials
Most Sixes – Nicholas Pooran
Pooran leads the league for sixes against spin (25), and with Krunal Pandya in RCB’s XI, the matchup could be a jackpot. He thrives in the middle overs—look for over 2.5 sixes.
Rishabh Pant Over 20.5 Runs
Pant has had a lean season, but showed flashes of his old self last game. With little to lose, he may open and play freely. A decent prop bet for the day.
Stats That Matter
RCB could become the first team ever to win all seven away games in a season.
Kohli’s on the brink of 9000 runs for RCB.
Pooran has hit the most sixes against spin this IPL – a trend that could continue today.
Marsh has the second-most sixes in powerplay overs this season.
Pitch & Weather
A red-and-black mixed soil pitch in Lucknow promises runs on the board, with a slight grip for bowlers as the game progresses. It’s expected to be a hot, humid evening, with temperatures crossing 36°C, but no rain in sight.
Final Betting Verdict
- Virat Kohli – Top RCB Batter
- Josh Hazlewood – Top RCB Bowler