Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) endured yet another defeat at their fortress, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, marking their third consecutive loss at home in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Ironically, each defeat has been orchestrated by former RCB players — a narrative that continues to haunt the side. On Friday, it was Yuzvendra Chahal, once RCB’s ace spinner, who returned to torment his former franchise. Despite their perfect away record, RCB’s struggles at home have exposed serious tactical and psychological gaps. The team must now recalibrate before another testing encounter on Sunday.

Chahal Returns to Haunt Former Team

Yuzvendra Chahal delivered a standout spell, finishing with figures of 2 for 11 in a rain-affected contest that saw Punjab Kings hand RCB a five-wicket defeat. His dismissal of Rajat Patidar, who was threatening to anchor RCB’s innings, was a critical moment in derailing Bengaluru’s already stuttering performance. Chahal, who wore RCB colors for years, showed no mercy against his old side as he tightened the screws with impeccable control and clever variations on a surface he once called home.

RCB's Home Record Now a Worrying Trend

RCB’s campaign at home has been marred by three successive defeats, and what’s worse is the pattern — each loss engineered by former Bengaluru stars. In their season opener, Mohammed Siraj, now with Gujarat Titans, grabbed three key wickets to rattle the hosts. That was followed by KL Rahul's unbeaten 93 for Delhi Capitals, another former RCB stalwart sinking their hopes. The latest episode featuring Chahal only adds to the irony and misery.

Away Form Offers Silver Lining

While their home form is faltering, RCB have maintained a 100% winning record on the road. Currently placed fourth on the table, they’ve shown composure and adaptability away from the cauldron of home expectations. However, their inconsistency in Bengaluru suggests a failure to read and respond to familiar conditions — a glaring weakness that could prove decisive in the second half of the league.

Hazlewood Calls for Introspection and Tactical Discipline

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood acknowledged the team’s recurring mistakes and lack of application in home fixtures. “It’s three in a row now. We’ve probably been a bit slow on the learnings from the first two games,” he stated candidly. He emphasized the need for a deeper analysis: “We’ll dive into this game with a fine-toothed comb and figure out where we can improve. The bowling has definitely been better, but winning the toss would help too.”

Tim David’s Heroics Go in Vain

Despite a top-order collapse, Tim David’s unbeaten 50 offered some resistance and helped RCB reach a modest 95 for 9 in their 14 overs. The game was shortened due to rain, which meant every run was crucial. David’s late flurry was valiant but lacked support from the other end, exposing the fragility of the top and middle orders once again.

Punjab Chase Down Target with Ease

Punjab Kings cruised to the target, thanks in large part to Nehal Wadhera's composed 33 not out. The chase was wrapped up with 11 balls to spare, underscoring Punjab’s dominance and exposing Bengaluru’s defensive vulnerabilities. The bowlers failed to build pressure, and the fielding lacked intent — a troubling sign ahead of key upcoming fixtures.

Crunch Time Ahead: Back-to-Back Clashes Loom

RCB now face Punjab Kings again on Sunday in a quick rematch that could define the trajectory of their season. Following that, they’ll host Rajasthan Royals, coached by none other than Rahul Dravid, another familiar face from the RCB legacy. Whether they can overcome their psychological block at home remains the biggest question.

Final Take: Tactical Flexibility and Home Advantage Must Align

RCB’s campaign hangs in the balance. While their away record proves they have the talent and temperament, the inability to replicate that form at home is both surprising and disappointing. With the league stage heating up, correcting this imbalance will be vital if RCB hope to make a serious run for the playoffs. Former players may have inflicted the wounds, but only current ones can heal them — starting with Sunday’s redemption shot.