IPL 2024: RR Knockout RCB Set Up Clash vs SRH in Qualifier 2

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Faf du Plessis pose with the IPL trophy ahead of the IPL 2024 Eliminator match. © iplt20.com

In a thrilling IPL 2024 Eliminator, Rajasthan Royals (RR) secured a spot in Qualifier 2 by defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by four wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Despite RCB’s strong recent form, which included six consecutive wins, RR broke their five-match winless streak in an encounter that showcased the unpredictability and excitement of T20 cricket.

Match Summary

Toss and Pitch Report

Rajasthan Royals won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision influenced by the dew factor, making it easier to chase. The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium had a notable asymmetry, with one boundary significantly longer than the other, which both teams strategically utilized throughout the match.

First Innings: RCB’s Batting Performance

RCB started their innings with a steady 37-run opening stand between Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. However, Trent Boult’s tight lines and lengths soon broke this partnership, with du Plessis caught at deep midwicket. Kohli, looking ominous with 30 off 19 balls by the end of the powerplay, was dismissed shortly after by Yuzvendra Chahal, caught on the midwicket boundary off a slog-sweep.

Rajat Patidar and Mahipal Lomror tried to stabilize the innings, but regular wickets and disciplined bowling from RR, especially from Ashwin and Avesh, kept RCB in check. Ashwin’s clever variations and Avesh’s timely breakthroughs ensured RCB couldn’t accelerate as desired. Despite a late push from Lomror, RCB ended their innings at 172 for 8, a total deemed 20 runs short by du Plessis considering the dew factor.

Second Innings: RR’s Chase

RR’s chase began with a stroke of luck, as Yashasvi Jaiswal was dropped early by Cameron Green at slip. Jaiswal capitalized on this, forming a solid foundation with quick boundaries. Tom Kohler-Cadmore, though bowled by Lockie Ferguson in the powerplay, provided initial support.

Sanju Samson and Jaiswal then took RR to a comfortable position, targeting the shorter boundary effectively. However, a few nervy moments ensued when Green, bowling with hard lengths, dismissed Jaiswal and aided a run-out of Dhruv Jurel. Samson’s early stumping off Karn Sharma further intensified the pressure.

With 58 needed off the last six overs, Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag played crucial cameos. They attacked Green and Yash Dayal, bringing the equation down to 19 off 18 balls. Although Mohammed Siraj managed to dismiss Parag and induced a miscue from Hetmyer, Rovman Powell’s edged boundaries and a decisive straight six sealed the win for RR with an over to spare.

Key Performances

Ravichandran Ashwin: Awarded Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance of 2 for 19. Ashwin was instrumental in containing RCB’s middle order and exerting pressure at critical moments.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: His quickfire 45 off 30 balls set the tone for RR’s chase, making full use of the dropped catch early in his innings.

Avesh Khan: With key wickets and maintaining pressure during the death overs, Avesh’s 3 for 44 was instrumental in restricting RCB to a below-par total.

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Rajasthan Royals advance to Qualifier 2, where they will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Chennai. The win not only breaks their losing streak but also sets them up for a potential final berth. For RCB, another season ends without a trophy, but their remarkable journey this year will be remembered for their resilience and thrilling performances.

Stay connected for more updates and in-depth analyses as we approach the climax of IPL 2024. Follow us for live scores, expert opinions, and all the latest cricket news.