How often do we see a double-centurion match
- Stump Talk
- June 4, 2023
- IPL, IPL2023
- Chennai Super Kings, TATA IPL 2023
- 0 Comments
How often do we get to see double centurions.
Royal Challengers Bangalore 187 for 2 (Kohli 100, du Plessis 71) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad 186 for 5 (Klaasen 104, Bracewell 2-13) by eight wickets
Wow, what a thrilling match that was! Royal Challengers Bangalore put up an exceptional chase, led by the masterful duo of Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, bolstering their chances of making it to the playoffs. Despite Heinrich Klaasen’s outstanding T20 century that set a target of 187, RCB’s determined effort sealed the deal with four balls to spare.
It was a match of milestones, with Virat Kohli notching up his sixth IPL hundred, making it the first-ever game in IPL history with centuries from both sides. Once Kohli left the crease, RCB needed just 15 runs from 13 balls, a target they achieved with relative ease.
This crucial victory propelled RCB momentarily into the top four, tied with Mumbai Indians on 14 points. The upcoming final matches of both teams will undoubtedly be nerve-wracking as they compete to secure their place in the playoffs, with RCB holding an edge in net run rate.
The match began with SRH opting to bat first on a slowish surface. The new opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Rahul Tripathi struggled to find their rhythm, losing their wickets early to Michael Bracewell. However, it was Heinrich Klaasen who turned the tide with his extraordinary display of power-hitting, making quick work of the spinners and forcing RCB to bring back their pacers.
Despite Klaasen’s heroic innings of 104 off 51 balls, he lacked substantial support from the other end, and SRH finished with a total of 186 runs.
The RCB fans were in full voice throughout the match, cheering their team on with passion and energy. The Aar See Bee chants echoed around the stadium, providing a lively atmosphere despite the match taking place in Hyderabad.
Kohli and du Plessis put on a scintillating show during the chase. Kohli’s intent and aggression were evident as he kept the scoreboard ticking, while du Plessis marveled at Kohli’s shots in awe. RCB’s decision to bat first proved right, as the pitch eased up during the second innings, allowing the batsmen to take control.
The match saw its share of luck, with du Plessis receiving a reprieve after a drop catch and a contentious no-ball decision. Nevertheless, the duo’s partnership thrived, breaking records along the way and becoming the most prolific opening pair in a single IPL season.
It was a sight to behold as Kohli and du Plessis brought up their respective half-centuries, showcasing their class and determination in the middle overs. RCB’s successful chase was only their third victory when chasing a target of 185 or more in the IPL.
With this victory, RCB fans are elated, and the team’s hopes for the playoffs remain alive and kicking. The IPL journey is nearing its climax, and the excitement is at its peak. As an ardent IPL fan, I can’t wait to see how the final matches unfold, with every run and wicket having significant implications for the playoffs. The drama and thrill of T20 cricket are at its peak, making this IPL season truly unforgettable!
