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The race for the Orange Cap in IPL 2025 has reached an intense stage following the conclusion of Match 34 between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings. With each team having played at least six matches, the top order of the leaderboard is beginning to show consistency, though a few explosive innings from middle-order batters have added unexpected twists to the contest.
Nicholas Pooran of Lucknow has firmly cemented his place at the top with 357 runs in just seven matches. His staggering strike rate of over 208 and a towering tally of 31 sixes illustrate not just his brute power but also the kind of impact he’s had this season. Pooran’s ability to finish games and accelerate in the final overs has made him a nightmare for bowlers and a key match-winner for his franchise.
Hot on his heels is Gujarat’s young sensation B Sai Sudharsan, who continues to impress with his elegant stroke play and mature temperament. His 329 runs have come with notable consistency and have been instrumental in Gujarat's campaign so far. Though his strike rate isn't as destructive as Pooran’s, his composure at the crease makes him a reliable anchor.
Mitchell Marsh, also from Lucknow, has quietly worked his way up the rankings. With 295 runs in six matches, Marsh has been a crucial cog in Lucknow’s top order, providing both aggression and stability. His powerful hitting, complemented by smart rotation of strike, has played a vital role in setting up or chasing down targets.
Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer round out the top five, with both batters showcasing glimpses of their explosive best. Iyer in particular has been a revelation for Punjab this season, showing intent and flair, while Suryakumar’s performances have been more calculated but equally effective.
Despite Royal Challengers Bangalore struggling as a unit, Virat Kohli has maintained his place among the top scorers. His 249 runs might not have come at a rapid pace, but they reflect his continued hunger to perform. The likes of Travis Head, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal are also within touching distance of the top positions, each playing a key role for their sides.
Meanwhile, Hyderabad’s Abhishek Sharma has lit up the tournament with a blistering century that not only pushed his total past 230 but also gave him the season’s highest individual score so far. With the tournament entering a crucial phase, the Orange Cap race promises even more drama and fireworks in the coming weeks.
Updated Orange Cap table after RCB vs PBKS Match 34
# |
Player |
Mat |
Runs |
HS |
S/R |
100 |
50 |
6S |
1 |
Nicholas Pooran (Lucknow) |
7 |
357 |
87 |
208.77 |
0 |
4 |
31 |
2 |
B Sai Sudharsan (Gujarat) |
6 |
329 |
82 |
151.61 |
0 |
4 |
13 |
3 |
Mitchell Marsh (Lucknow) |
6 |
295 |
81 |
171.51 |
0 |
4 |
17 |
4 |
Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai) |
7 |
265 |
67 |
151.43 |
0 |
1 |
12 |
5 |
Shreyas Iyer (Punjab) |
7 |
257 |
97 |
194.7 |
0 |
3 |
20 |
6 |
Virat Kohli (Bangalore) |
7 |
249 |
67 |
141.48 |
0 |
3 |
10 |
7 |
Travis Head (Hyderabad) |
7 |
242 |
67 |
168.06 |
0 |
2 |
9 |
8 |
Lokesh Rahul (Delhi) |
5 |
238 |
93 |
154.55 |
0 |
2 |
12 |
9 |
Yashasvi Jaiswal (Rajasthan) |
7 |
233 |
75 |
138.69 |
0 |
3 |
13 |
10 |
Abhishek Sharma (Hyderabad) |
7 |
232 |
141 |
188.62 |
1 |
0 |
10 |
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