The dynamic beginning of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli, established the stage for an exciting contest against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday, 4th May.
Du Plessis, especially, demonstrated his aggressive approach, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground and achieving the franchise’s second-fastest fifty in just 18 balls against Gujarat Titans in the IPL match held in Bengaluru.
While du Plessis assumed the role of the aggressor, Kohli offered vital assistance, leading to their highest-ever Powerplay score of 92 in the history of the IPL.
However, a sudden twist of fate resulted in Bengaluru losing momentum, sliding from 92/1 to 111/5. Kohli, unfazed by the wickets falling around him, steered the innings, even as partners departed, maintaining his position firmly.
Dinesh Karthik‘s entrance offered crucial reinforcement, and despite Kohli’s departure, Karthik remained composed and focused on countering Rashid Khan to regain control of the situation.
With valuable contributions from Swapnil Singh as well, Bengaluru’s determination and depth were evident as they comfortably chased down the 147-run target with 38 balls to spare, highlighting the team’s resolve in overcoming challenges.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans with a four-wicket victory
Veteran RCB batsman Karthik, who hadn’t anticipated needing to bat given the strong start by the openers, attributed the four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans entirely to Kohli and du Plessis.
“I started with a cup of tea, then after four overs I had a cappuccino and thought I wouldn’t be batting.” Things happened, and then I had to have a bat,” Karthik said after the match.
“[Approach] How to hit boundaries, basic cricketing skills come through. I backed myself to get the job done. The pitch was good to bowl on, having been under the covers there was a bit of moisture. Good toss to win but the bowlers did the job beautifully.”
“The way Faf and Virat batted, I don’t think they would have played the same shots batting first! [Advice to Swapnil] Play for the one that comes in. If you feel sweep is a good option, back yourself to do it but commit to the shot, don’t be half-hearted,” Karthik added.
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