In a dramatic IPL 2024 Eliminator, Rajasthan Royals (RR) triumphed over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by four wickets in Ahmedabad, despite RCB coming into the match with six consecutive wins and RR struggling with five winless games. The victory propels RR to Qualifier 2 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Chennai on Friday.
After winning a crucial toss, RR’s bowlers excelled, restricting RCB to 172 at a venue where dew typically makes chasing easier. The match unfolded as a game of two halves, with RR managing to chase down the target with an over to spare despite nervy moments.
The match featured a notable asymmetry in the Ahmedabad pitch, with one boundary significantly longer than the other. RR’s bowlers, particularly Trent Boult, R Ashwin, and Avesh Khan, exploited this to great effect. RCB struggled on the longer boundary side, scoring only 51 for 6 in odd-numbered overs but managing 121 for 2 from the other end. This imbalance was mirrored in RR’s batting performance, with 111 for 1 from one end and 63 for 5 from the other.
RCB captain Faf du Plessis admitted his team fell short by about 20 runs, estimating a par score of 180 on the pitch. Boult’s exceptional opening spell, Ashwin’s controlled middle overs, and strategic bowling changes were instrumental in restricting RCB. Virat Kohli’s promising start, marked by his rapid 30 off 19 balls, was cut short by Yuzvendra Chahal.
Despite a few dropped catches by RCB, RR’s Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson capitalized on scoring opportunities, maintaining pressure on the bowlers. Key contributions from Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag in the final overs secured the victory for RR.
In the end, Mohammed Siraj’s late strikes gave RCB a glimmer of hope, but Rovman Powell’s composed finish, including edged boundaries off Lockie Ferguson and a straight six, sealed the win for RR.
For RCB, it marks another season without the coveted IPL trophy, but one remembered for their impressive run and individual performances. Despite the heartbreak, their journey in IPL 2024 showcased resilience and moments of brilliance.
