In the latest clash of IPL 2024, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured their first win of the season by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 4 wickets. Playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on the occasion of Holi, RCB’s batsmen chased down the target of 177 runs in a thrilling encounter. It was a nail-biting finish with Dinesh Karthik and Mahipal Lomror playing crucial roles in guiding RCB to victory.
Virat Kohli’s 77-run Knock Guides RCB to Victory Despite Early Wobbles
The chase began with some early setbacks as RCB lost the wickets of Faf du Plessis and Cameron Green within the first 5 overs. However, Virat Kohli held firm at the other end, receiving a lifeline early in his innings as Johnny Bairstow dropped a catch off his bat. Kohli capitalized on this opportunity, scoring a brilliant 77 runs off just 49 balls, which marked his 100th fifty-plus score in T20 cricket. He formed a valuable partnership with Rajat Patidar before falling victim to Harshal Patel.
Following Kohli’s dismissal, Anuj Rawat also returned to the pavilion, leaving RCB needing 47 runs off 22 balls. In a tense finish, experienced campaigner Dinesh Karthik stepped up to the occasion, smashing 28 runs off just 10 balls with 3 fours and 2 sixes. Meanwhile, Mahipal Lomror contributed with 17 runs off 8 balls to seal the victory for RCB.
On the bowling front, Harpreet Brar and Kagiso Rabada picked up two wickets each for PBKS, but their efforts were not enough to prevent RCB from crossing the finish line.
RCB’s Bowlers Shine as PBKS Falters Despite Dhawan’s Efforts
Earlier in the match, PBKS got off to a shaky start, losing the wicket of Jonny Bairstow to Mohammed Siraj in the sixth over. However, captain Shikhar Dhawan and Prabhsimran Singh steadied the innings with a 55-run partnership for the second wicket. But, RCB’s bowlers struck back, with Glenn Maxwell dismissing Prabhsimran Singh to break the partnership. Despite Dhawan and Liam Livingstone taking the score close to the 100-run mark in the 12th over, PBKS suffered a collapse, eventually posting a total of around 180 runs.In the end, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell starred with the ball for RCB, restricting PBKS to a total below 180 and setting the stage for RCB’s successful chase.With this win, RCB kick-started their campaign on a positive note, showcasing their batting depth and resilience under pressure. On the other hand, PBKS will look to bounce back stronger in their upcoming matches to register their first win of the season.