RCB vs LSG: As the IPL 2025 league stage nears its end, all eyes are on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who are just one win away from securing a direct ticket to Qualifier 1. They face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday in a must-win game that could shape the playoffs picture.

Interestingly, RCB didn’t need to bother watching Monday night’s match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) with a calculator in hand. The equation is simple: win against LSG and jump to 19 points, enough to guarantee a top-two finish. That’s a direct shot at the final for Faf du Plessis and Co.

But there’s a twist.

RCB vs LSG: If RCB lose to LSG, they’ll drop to third and face the long route—starting with the Eliminator. It’s the same path they took last year, only to be knocked out by Rajasthan Royals. This time, they’d want to avoid that risk.

However, recent trends may give RCB fans a few jitters. In the last few days, teams already out of playoff contention have been upsetting the big boys. Ironically, it was LSG who started that trend, defeating table-toppers Gujarat Titans thanks to a century from Mitchell Marsh. With Nicholas Pooran back in form and 6’4″ speedster Will O’Rourke making early impact, LSG may not go down without a fight.

RCB also come into this clash after a setback, losing their winning streak to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Worse, power-hitter Tim David injured himself in that game and is unlikely to feature on Tuesday.

Hazlewood Returns, David Likely Out

RCB vs LSG: The good news for RCB? Aussie pace ace Josh Hazlewood has rejoined the squad after shoulder rehab. Known for his accuracy and ability to strike in both powerplay and death overs, Hazlewood’s return could be the boost Bengaluru needs heading into this high-stakes match.

RCB will miss Tim David, who added firepower in the lower order recently. His absence leaves a hole, but the team has options in Liam Livingstone and Tim Seifert—both recently drafted in as replacements.

Form Watch

RCB: L W W W W

LSG: W L L L L

RCB are clearly the team in form, but LSG showed they can surprise, especially with nothing to lose.

In Focus: Hazlewood & Pant

RCB vs LSG: Hazlewood has been lethal this season, using pace variations, yorkers, and hard lengths to trouble even the best batters. With the WTC final coming up, he’ll want to end his IPL stint on a high.

On the other side, Rishabh Pant’s form remains a concern. The LSG skipper has had a tough season with the bat, but showed flashes of brilliance in his last outing. With pressure off his shoulders, could we see Pant unleashed?

Likely XIs

RCB:
Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

LSG:
Matthew Breetzke/Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (capt & wk), Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Himmat Singh, Digvesh Rathi, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep, Will O’Rourke, Akash Singh

Pitch & Conditions

RCB vs LSG: Tuesday’s match will be played on a mixed-soil pitch in Lucknow—part red, part black—which tends to favor batting. Temperatures are expected to cross 36°C, with sticky humidity making things tough for the players. No rain is forecasted, so we’re all set for a full contest.

Bottom line?

RCB vs LSG: RCB’s path to a direct playoff spot is in their own hands. LSG may be out of the race, but they’ll want to end on a high—and play spoilsport while they’re at it.

It’s do-or-die time. Who blinks first?