Hyderabad: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) showcased a stellar performance to secure their second win in the Tata Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 35 runs in a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, RCB got off to a blistering start with openers Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli setting the tone with aggressive strokeplay. Despite a brief slowdown in the middle overs, RCB’s innings gained momentum with a scintillating knock from Rajat Patidar, who hammered a quickfire fifty. Cameron Green’s late flourish propelled RCB to a challenging total of 206/7.
In response, SRH faced early setbacks as RCB’s bowlers struck crucial blows upfront. Despite a valiant effort from Abhishek Sharma and later contributions from Travis Head and Shahbaz Ahmed, SRH struggled to keep up with the required run rate. RCB’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Karn Sharma and Swapnil Singh, ensured that SRH fell short of the target, eventually managing 171/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Highlighting the key moments of the match, du Plessis and Kohli’s explosive partnership laid the foundation for RCB’s imposing total, while Patidar’s aggressive innings provided the much-needed impetus in the middle overs. SRH’s chase suffered early setbacks with the quick dismissals of Head and Markram, courtesy of RCB’s sharp bowling display.
The victory marks RCB’s second win of the season, boosting their momentum in the tournament. On the other hand, SRH will look to regroup and bounce back stronger in their upcoming fixtures.
With both teams showcasing their prowess in an electrifying contest, IPL fans were treated to an enthralling display of cricketing action at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
RCB’s next encounter is against Mumbai Indians, while SRH will face Delhi Capitals in their respective matches as the tournament progresses.