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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 60 runs at Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium on Thursday. With this feat, the hopes of Preity Zinta-owned PBKS to qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs came to an end.
RCB batting blitz
Virat Kohli anchored the RCB innings with a phenomenal 92 runs off just 47 deliveries. He found able support from Rajat Patidar (55 off 23 balls) and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls), forging crucial partnerships that propelled RCB to a mammoth total of 241/7. Patidar’s blistering knock early in the innings set the tone for the onslaught, while Kohli’s masterful innings ensured RCB never relinquished control. Green’s late cameo added valuable firepower to the total.
Punjab Kings’ fading hope
Chasing a daunting target, PBKS displayed a glimmer of hope with a brisk 61 runs from Rilee Rossouw off just 27 balls. However, their batting faltered after the loss of two quick wickets to Karn Sharma. The remaining batters failed to build on Rossouw’s knock, leading to a disappointing collapse. PBKS were eventually bowled out for 181 runs in 17 overs. This defeat officially eliminated them from playoff contention, as they can only reach a maximum of 12 points in their remaining two games.
Also READ: IPL 2024 – Punjab Kings owner Preity Zinta shares heartfelt praise for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Sam Curran reflects on PBKS’ disappointing IPL season
Speaking after the match, PBKS stand-in skipper Curran acknowledged the positives throughout the season but expressed his disappointment at their shortcomings. He praised his team’s efforts, stating: “A lot of positive signs throughout the season, but not enough to get over the line unfortunately. We knew that we had the best side for the rest of the tournament and feel gutted for the team. Gotta keep our heads up, keep learning and keep becoming better.”
However, he also offered an apology to the fans, admitting: “Really enjoyed leading a great bunch of guys, would have loved a few more wins. We had some highs, and some record run-chases as well. Lots of disappointment and apologize to the fans, we will keep fighting. The ups and downs have been quite tough, but you gotta keep learning and keep working hard.”
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