RCB vs KKR: This was the Knights’ second win in two matches, and it marked the first time any team won an away game in IPL 2024.
Virat Kohli wanted to show he’s still got what it takes to shine in T20 cricket. But his efforts on Friday couldn’t save Royal Challengers Bengaluru from a seven-wicket defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders.
It was the second win in a row for the Knights, and notably, the first time any team won an away game in IPL 2024. KKR has had a good record at Chinnaswamy Stadium since 2016, winning all six matches played there.
In the chase of 183 runs, KKR’s openers started strong, reaching 85/0 in the first six overs. Sunil Narine played aggressively, scoring 47 off 22 balls, supported by Phil Salt’s 30 off 20. Even though they got out quickly, Venkatesh Iyer played a steady innings, scoring 50 off 30 balls despite battling cramps. Captain Shreyas Iyer stayed unbeaten on 39 off 24 balls, helping KKR reach the target with 19 balls remaining.
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On the other hand, Virat Kohli played a valiant inning, scoring an unbeaten 83 off 59 balls, holding RCB’s innings together. Cameron Green (33 off 21 balls) and Glenn Maxwell (28 off 19 balls) supported him well. But RCB’s total couldn’t challenge KKR’s chase.
KKR’s bowlers, especially Andre Russell (2/29) and Harshit Rana (2/39), used slower balls effectively to trouble RCB’s batters. However, KKR’s fielding was below par, as they dropped at least three catches in the outfield.
Overall, it was a convincing win for KKR, while RCB will need to improve their performance in the upcoming matches.
