The match was a rollercoaster ride, with twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Chasing a target of 177, RCB’s skipper Virat Kohli unleashed his trademark aggression. The crowd erupted as he dispatched the Punjab Kings bowlers to all corners of the ground, amassing a blistering 49-ball 77. However, just when it seemed like RCB had the game in the bag, Harpreet Brar’s economical spell and Kagiso Rabada’s crucial wickets applied the brakes.
With RCB needing 47 runs off 22 balls, Dinesh Karthik stepped up to the plate. Despite his age (38), Karthik moved around the crease with the agility of a much younger player. His unbeaten 28 off 10 balls, including three fours and two sixes, guided RCB to victory with four balls to spare. The crowd erupted, and the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium came alive as RCB celebrated their hard-fought win.
Kohli’s Moment of Frustration
Virat Kohli’s dismissal was a turning point. He mistimed a slash, and the ball landed safely in Brar’s hands. The crowd fell silent, and suddenly, the game was wide open. Anuj Rawat’s departure further added to the tension, leaving RCB fans anxious.
Harpreet Brar’s Impact
Harpreet Brar’s left-arm spin proved pivotal. He kept RCB’s scoring rate in check and picked up crucial wickets. His disciplined line and length disrupted RCB’s rhythm, making him a standout performer for the Punjab Kings.