‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’ Remains a Distant Dream as Royal Challengers Bengaluru Knocked Out
The dream of Virat Kohli lifting the IPL trophy for the first time with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) continued to elude them as they were comprehensively outplayed by Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a thrilling Eliminator clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Chasing a modest target of 173, RR chased it down with 6 wickets and 7 balls to spare, booking their place in Qualifier 2 against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
RCB’s Batting Flop Show
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, RCB’s batting unit failed to capitalize. Openers Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli provided a steady start, but none of the batsmen could convert it into a big score. Rajat Patidar (38) and Mahipal Lomror (33) were the only ones to show some fight, while Glenn Maxwell’s dismissal for a bizarre first-ball duck left the crowd stunned. RCB’s batting woes continued as wickets fell at regular intervals, with Sandeep Sharma (4/48) and Trent Boult (2/20) picking up crucial wickets. In the end, RCB could only manage a below-par 172/8.
Rajasthan Royals Clinch a Clinical Victory
Chasing a seemingly manageable target, RR openers Yashasvi Jaiswal (28) and Jos Buttler (23) started cautiously. However, both fell prey to Mohammed Siraj’s fiery pace. Sanju Samson (24) and Riyan Parag (31) steadied the innings with a crucial partnership before being dismissed. The hero of the chase turned out to be Rovman Powell, who smashed a quick-fire 47 off 36 balls, including a match-winning six in the final over, to seal the victory for RR.
Ashwin’s Masterclass and Boult’s Brilliance
RR’s bowling attack was disciplined and clinical. Ravichandran Ashwin (2/23) once again displayed his experience, bamboozling Glenn Maxwell and David Willey with his wily spin. Trent Boult, with his swing bowling, was equally impressive, dismissing both Virat Kohli and Wanindu Hasaranga. Avesh Khan (2/32) also chipped in with crucial wickets in the death overs.
Disappointment for RCB Fans
The defeat marks another year of disappointment for RCB fans who have been yearning for their maiden IPL title. Virat Kohli’s wait for a trophy as captain continues, and questions will surely be raised about the team’s batting frailties.
Looking Ahead for RR
RR, on the other hand, will be brimming with confidence after this clinical performance. They will now face a resurgent Sunrisers Hyderabad team in Qualifier 2, with a place in the finals at stake. Can they continue their winning momentum and keep their dream alive? Only time will tell.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
