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In the electrifying Eliminator of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Rajasthan Royals (RR) clashed with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 22 in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. The match witnessed a spectacular display of cricketing prowess, with both teams vying for a spot in the subsequent stages of the tournament.
RCB’s competitive total and RR’s response
After winning the toss, RR’s skipper Sanju Samson opted to bowl first, setting the stage for RCB’s batting prowess to be put to the test. Despite no standout individual performances, RCB managed a competitive score of 172/8 in their allotted 20 overs. This included valuable contributions from Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and Mahipal Lomror. In response, RR faced early batting challenges, but Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s promising innings and the partnership between Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel kept their hopes alive.
Also READ: Here’s how Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have flared in the IPL Playoffs
Virat Kohli’s fielding brilliance
However in a pivotal moment of the match, Parag struck the ball towards the square leg region off Cameron Green‘s delivery. Sensing an opportunity for a second run, Parag called for it and sprinted towards the opposite end with determination. Nevertheless, his partner, Jurel, seemed to lack the same urgency and was slow to respond.
Kohli, stationed at the boundary, observed Jurel’s casual approach and sprang into action quickly. With remarkable agility, Kohli intercepted the ball and swiftly threw it back to Green, who dismantled the stumps in a fluid motion.
The decision was referred to the TV umpire, whose replays confirmed that Jurel’s bat was marginally short of the crease when the bails were dislodged by Green’s throw. Disappointed by the missed opportunity, Jurel made his way back to the pavilion, while Kohli’s display of athleticism injected renewed energy into the RCB camp. The run-out of Jurel opened up possibilities for an RCB comeback, igniting Kohli’s competitive spirit even further.
Here’s the video:
Virat Kohli 🫡#RRvRCB #IPLonJioCinema #TATAIPL #TATAIPLPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/2xpGjC6YTn
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) May 22, 2024
RCB’s last-ditch efforts and RR’s victory
As the match approached its climax, RCB’s bowlers sought to capitalize on the momentum gained from Kohli’s fielding heroics. Mohammed Siraj‘s crucial wickets in the 18th over raised hopes of a late resurgence for RCB. Nonetheless, RR’s Rovman Powell held his nerve, guiding his team to a hard-fought four-wicket victory. With this win, RR advanced to Qualifier 2, keeping their IPL title aspirations alive.
RR’s progress and RCB’s disappointment
RR’s triumph sets the stage for an intriguing showdown in Qualifier 2, where they will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 24. The winner of Qualifier 2 will then lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL final on May 26. Meanwhile, RCB’s valiant effort came to an end in a heartbreaking manner, despite their impressive performance throughout the tournament. As they reflect on their journey, RCB will look to regroup and come back stronger in the future, determined to clinch their maiden IPL title.