Kohli and du Plessis Lead RCB to Dramatic Victory Over CSK
In a thrilling night in Bengaluru, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their sixth consecutive win in IPL 2024, defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 27 runs to clinch a playoff spot, thereby eliminating CSK from the tournament. Virat Kohli was emotional, Faf du Plessis overjoyed, and MS Dhoni conspicuously absent post-match, capturing the evening’s drama.
Asked to bat first, RCB posted an impressive 218 for 5. Kohli (47) and du Plessis (54) provided strong starts, supported by key contributions from Rajat Patidar (41) and Cameron Green (38). CSK, in response, fell short, managing 191 for 7.
The final over, bowled by Yash Dayal, was crucial. Needing 10 runs off the last two balls to qualify, Ravindra Jadeja was unable to deliver, having earlier hit a six. Dayal, who had already dismissed Dhoni with a slower ball, held his nerve to secure the win.
RCB struck early with the ball; Glenn Maxwell removed Ruturaj Gaikwad with his first delivery, and Dayal soon dismissed Daryl Mitchell. CSK’s powerplay momentum was driven by Rachin Ravindra, who scored 61 off 31 balls, partnering with Ajinkya Rahane in a 66-run stand off 41 balls. Ravindra’s aggressive play, particularly against Maxwell and Siraj, kept CSK competitive until a run out after a mix-up with Shivam Dube.
Dew affected RCB’s ability to bowl spin effectively, aiding Jadeja, who quickly found form with sixes off Dayal, Siraj, and Lockie Ferguson. Despite Jadeja’s 42* and Dhoni’s quick 25 off 13 balls, CSK fell short. The middle overs proved decisive: RCB scored 113 runs and lost just two wickets from overs 7 to 16, while CSK managed only 80 runs and lost four wickets.
Du Plessis’ fielding brilliance was showcased by a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Mitchell Santner, contributing to CSK’s collapse from 115 for 3 to 129 for 6 within 13 balls. This forced Dhoni to bat earlier than usual, but even his late cameo couldn’t turn the tide.
RCB’s comprehensive performance, particularly in the middle overs, was highlighted by aggressive batting from Patidar and Green, which set them up for a formidable total. Conversely, CSK’s inability to capitalize during the same phase resulted in their downfall, despite valiant efforts from their lower order. The win ensured RCB’s playoff berth and marked a significant moment in their IPL 2024 campaign.
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