Royal Challengers Bengaluru put up a valiant fight, but ultimately fell short against Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator match of the 2024 Indian Premier League. Despite the loss, RCB captain Faf du Plessis expressed pride in his team's efforts, as they were able to make a strong comeback and win six games in a row to reach the playoffs. RR, on the other hand, broke their five-match losing streak and will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2, with the winner moving on to the final against Kolkata Knight Riders.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Falter in Eliminator Despite Resurgent Season
In a thrilling encounter at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) hopes of reaching the Indian Premier League (IPL) final were dashed as they suffered a narrow defeat to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator match.
RCB, led by captain Faf du Plessis, entered the playoffs on a high note, having won six consecutive matches to qualify. However, they were unable to maintain their momentum against RR, who had been struggling in recent games.
RR, captained by Sanju Samson, won the toss and elected to bowl first. RCB openers Virat Kohli and du Plessis gave their team a solid start, putting on 50 runs for the first wicket. However, they lost wickets in quick succession, with Kohli being trapped LBW by Trent Boult and du Plessis holing out to Ravichandran Ashwin.
Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik provided a brief respite with a 40-run partnership, but both departed within a few overs. RCB eventually finished on a competitive 170/7, thanks to useful contributions from Shahbaz Ahmed (26) and Wanindu Hasaranga (23 not out).
In reply, RR's top order struggled to get going. Jos Buttler was dismissed for just 10, while Devdutt Padikkal fell for 28. Samson and Shimron Hetmyer kept RR in the hunt with a 64-run partnership, but their dismissals in quick succession left the game in the balance.
Daryl Mitchell and Riyan Parag played crucial roles in guiding RR home. Mitchell struck a quick-fire 31 off 23 balls, while Parag held his nerve under pressure, hitting a six off the penultimate ball to seal victory for his team.
Despite the defeat, du Plessis praised his team's efforts. "We had a disappointing start to the season, but we showed great character to make it to the playoffs," he said. "We're proud of what we've achieved."
RR, on the other hand, will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2. The winner of that match will advance to the final against Kolkata Knight Riders, who have already booked their place.
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