RCB's Jitesh Sharma Breaks Dhoni’s 7-Year Record

RCB’s Jitesh Sharma Breaks Dhoni’s 7-Year Record

Published on May 28, 2025

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma has made headlines after a sensational performance against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2025, breaking a seven-year-old record previously held by MS Dhoni. Sharma’s match-winning knock not only helped RCB secure a spot in Qualifier 1 but also etched his name in IPL history.

RCB Clinches Qualifier 1 Spot with Dominant Win Over LSG

In a high-scoring thriller, LSG posted a formidable total of 227 runs, powered by their captain Rishabh Pant’s brilliant 61-ball 118. Pant’s century was complemented by Mitchell Marsh’s quickfire 37-ball 67, making it a challenging chase for RCB on the Lucknow pitch. Despite a strong 61-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, RCB looked under pressure as they chased a big target.

Virat Kohli achieved a unique milestone during the game, becoming the first cricketer to score 9,000 T20 runs for a single franchise — a remarkable feat that adds to his legacy with RCB. However, it was the stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma who stole the spotlight with a vintage innings that shifted the momentum firmly in RCB’s favor.

Jitesh Sharma’s Match-Winning Knock and New IPL Record

Coming in at number six, Sharma showcased composure and power, smashing 85 runs off just 33 balls. His fearless strokeplay and smart cricket helped him form a crucial partnership with Mayank Agarwal, turning the tide of the game. Sharma’s unbeaten knock not only guided RCB home but also set a new IPL record: the highest runs scored by a batter batting at number six or lower during a chase.

The previous record holder was MS Dhoni, who had scored 70 runs in a chase against RCB back in 2018. Sharma’s innings surpassed this, highlighting his emergence as a clutch player for RCB. His performance has not only helped the team reach the playoffs but also boosted their confidence heading into Qualifier 1.

RCB’s Historic Away Winning Streak

RCB’s victory over LSG marked another historic achievement — they became the first team in IPL history to win all seven of their away matches in a single season. Despite their impressive away form, RCB’s performance at their home ground, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, has been inconsistent, managing only three wins there this season.

Road to the IPL Trophy

With this win, RCB will now face Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings on May 29 at Mallanpur in Qualifier 1. Finishing second in the league stage, RCB have the advantage of two chances to reach the final. If they lose to Punjab Kings, they still have an opportunity to qualify through Qualifier 2 by playing the winner of the Eliminator match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans.

Last season, RCB were knocked out in the Eliminator by Rajasthan Royals, but this year the team is well poised to make a strong push for their maiden IPL trophy. Sharma’s inspirational leadership and batting display will be critical in the playoffs as RCB look to capitalize on their stellar campaign.

In summary, Jitesh Sharma’s record-breaking innings and RCB’s consistent away performance underline the team’s growing strength and depth. As the IPL 2025 playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Sharma and RCB as they aim to chase down the ultimate prize in Indian cricket.

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