RCB keeps playoff hopes alive with dominant victory over PBKS in IPL 2024

Virat Kohli’s heroics lead RCB to victory over Punjab Kings

Despite facing heavy rain and hail, Virat Kohli showcased his brilliance with the bat, scoring a blistering 92 off just 47 balls to lead Royal Challengers Bangalore to a crucial 60-run win over Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Kohli, who brought up his fifth fifty of the season, was well-supported by Rajat Patidar, who scored a quickfire 55 off 23 balls. The duo’s partnership of 76 runs guided RCB to a formidable total of 241 for 7. In response, Punjab Kings faltered and were bowled out for 181, knocking them out of the playoffs race.

Despite early reprieves, Kohli made the most of the chances given to him and punished the Kings bowlers all around the park. His aggressive innings, which included seven fours and six sixes, set the tone for RCB’s victory.

Youngster Vidwath Kaverappa impressed on debut for RCB, picking up crucial wickets to dent the Kings’ chase. Despite a rain interruption, Kohli remained focused and fell just eight runs short of what would have been his 100th century in all formats.

Rilee Rossouw’s valiant effort with the bat kept the Kings in the hunt, but the RCB bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Lockie Ferguson, struck at crucial intervals to seal the win for their team.

With this victory, RCB’s playoff hopes remain alive, thanks to Kohli’s masterclass with the bat.