Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar was full of praise for his team after their dominant 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 in Mullanpur. RCB chased down PBKS’s modest total of 101 in just 10 overs, with Phil Salt leading the charge with a blistering 56* off 27 balls. Speaking after the win, Patidar highlighted the clarity in the team’s planning and credited his bowlers for setting up the game with disciplined efforts on a tricky pitch. "We were very clear in our plans and how we have to bowl. Fast bowlers used the surface well, Suyash chipped in well. He bowls in line of the stumps, which is his strength. I don't give him a lot of ideas, don't want to confuse him,” Patidar told broadcasters after the match. The RCB skipper also brushed off concerns about a missed practice session, backing his players’ preparation throughout the season. He reserved special praise for Salt, who once again delivered a rapid-fire start. "We had done a lot of practice throughout the tournament. One day of non-practice won't harm you. The way [Salt] is batting in every match, the way he is giving us starts, it is a treat. I am a big fan of him,” he added. Also READ: RCB Bowlers Crush PBKS with Historic Playoff Performance “Wherever we go, it feels like home” – Patidar thanks RCB fans after final entry With this win, RCB have booked their spot in the IPL 2025 final and continue their fairytale run. Patidar made sure to acknowledge the fans who have stood by the team throughout the season. "Always thank RCB fans, wherever we go, we feel like it is our home ground. One more game, let's celebrate together!" Also READ: Punjab Kings Crash Out After Batting Collapse in IPL Playoffs RCB will now await the winner of Qualifier 2, with their eyes set on a maiden IPL title. Salt’s form and the bowling unit’s consistency have made them strong contenders heading into the final.Meanwhile, PBKS will face the winner of Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2. The winner will face RCB in the final on June 3.