Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their winning momentum in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as they handed Punjab Kings (PBKS) another crushing defeat, registering a dominant 23-run victory at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Monday.
RCB's Batting Fireworks
Put in to bat first, RCB posted a formidable total of 204 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs. The foundation was laid by opener Virat Kohli, who played a scintillating knock of 78 runs off 52 balls, laced with 8 fours and 3 sixes. He was well supported by Faf du Plessis, who contributed a quickfire 45 off 28 deliveries. Later, Glenn Maxwell's explosive 38 off 18 balls and a late cameo from Dinesh Karthik (22 not out off 10 balls) propelled RCB past the 200-run mark.
Punjab Kings' Chase Falls Short
Chasing a stiff target, Punjab Kings got off to a solid start with openers Shikhar Dhawan (34) and Jonny Bairstow (41) adding 62 runs in the powerplay. However, RCB's bowlers struck back at regular intervals to keep PBKS in check. Mohammed Siraj was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 3 for 32, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with 2 for 28. Despite a fighting 52 off 38 balls from Liam Livingstone, Punjab Kings could only manage 181 for 9 in their 20 overs, falling short by 23 runs.
Key Moments
- Virat Kohli's 78 off 52 balls set the platform for RCB's big total.
- Mohammed Siraj's three-wicket haul derailed Punjab's chase in the middle overs.
- Liam Livingstone's half-century went in vain as wickets kept falling at the other end.
With this win, RCB moved to the second spot in the IPL 2026 points table, while Punjab Kings remained at the bottom, having lost their fifth consecutive match.
