Dharamsala: The Royal Challengers Bangaluru (RCB) secured their fourth consecutive victory in the IPL season, defeating the Punjab Kings by 60-run margin at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.
Leading from the front, Virat Kohli’s masterclass innings of 92 runs off just 47 deliveries set the stage for RCB’s dominance. Despite being dropped twice early in his innings, Kohli capitalized on the chances and formed a formidable partnership with Rajat Patidar, who contributed a blazing 55 runs off 23 balls. Cameron Green (46 off 27) and Dinesh Karthik (18 off 7) provided the finishing touches as RCB posted an imposing total of 241/7.
In response, the Punjab Kings got off to a promising start with Rilee Rossouw’s aggressive innings, but a stellar catch by Faf du Plessis and an outstanding run-out by Kohli turned the tide in RCB’s favor. Despite Rossouw’s impressive half-century, Karn Sharma’s crucial spell of 2/29 and a remarkable fielding effort restricted PBKS to 181 all out in 17 overs.
Earlier in the match, RCB, opting to bat first after winning the toss, encountered an eventful start with Kohli being dropped twice within the first three overs. Debutant Vidwath Kaverappa showcased glimpses of brilliance but faced the brunt of Kohli’s onslaught. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Kohli’s aggressive approach and Patidar’s explosive batting propelled RCB to a formidable total before rain and hail briefly interrupted play.
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