MOEEN Ali’s explosive batting means Royal Challengers Bangalore head into a last-match showdown with Rajasthan Royals to see if they can quality for the Indian Premier League's knockout stages.

The Worcestershire all-rounder smashed 65 off just 34 balls in the vital 14-run win over Tom Moody’s side Sunrisers in Hyderabad.

It was the third victory in a row for Challengers and lifted them to fifth in the table among four teams on 12 points.

They must now defeat Royals today and hope other results go their way in the battle to finish in the top four.

Moeen hit six sixes which rescued his side from 38-2 and hoisted them to 218-6 from 20 overs.

He went to his maiden IPL 50 off 25 balls and shared in a third-wicket stand of 107 in 9.3 overs with AB de Villiers (69 off 39 balls).

Moeen was fourth out at 149 in the 15th over when caught behind off a reverse paddle shot against Rashid Khan.

He made an important contribution with the ball in dismissing one-time Worcestershire loan player Alex Hales for 37.

Sunrisers made a bold effort to reach their formidable target but closed on 204-3.

Meanwhile, Matt Davis will captain Worcestershire under 17s when they launch their Royal London One-Day Cup campaign against Hampshire at Stourport on Sunday (noon).