Virat Kohli's Masterclass with Rajat Patidar stunning knock Leads RCB to Record-Breaking Victory at Dharamsala

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Dominate Punjab Kings with Record-breaking Performance

RCB 4th consecutive win in IPL 2024 ©BCCI

In a high-octane encounter at Dharamsala, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) put up a sensational display of power-hitting to post the highest-ever total at the venue in all IPL games, ultimately clinching a convincing 60-run victory over Punjab Kings. RCB, after being asked to bat first, amassed a mammoth 241/7 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to stellar performances from their top order.

The early departure of skipper Faf du Plessis did little to deter RCB's momentum as Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar capitalized on Punjab Kings' fielding lapses to build a formidable partnership. Patidar's aggressive knock of 55 off just 23 deliveries set the tone, while Kohli showcased his class with a masterful 92 off 47 balls, making the most of being dropped early in his innings. Contributions from Cameron Green (46 off 27) and a quick cameo from Dinesh Karthik (18 off 7) further bolstered RCB's imposing total of 241/7.

Despite a promising start with the ball, Punjab Kings' bowlers found themselves on the receiving end of RCB's relentless assault, with Harshal Patel's exceptional last over earning him figures of 3/38 in 4 overs and the prestigious Purple Cap. Vidhwath Kaverappa's tidy spell of 2/36 was marred by missed opportunities in the field, reflecting Punjab Kings' overall lackluster performance on the day.

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Chasing a daunting target, Punjab Kings' innings got off to a shaky start with Swapnil Singh striking early to dismiss Prabhsimran Singh. Jonny Bairstow and Rilee Rossouw steadied the ship briefly, but Lockie Ferguson's variation accounted for Bairstow's wicket, halting Punjab Kings' momentum.

Rossouw's explosive half-century (61 off 27) and Shashank Singh's brisk 37 off 19 kept Punjab Kings in the hunt momentarily. However, RCB's spinners, led by Swapnil Singh (2/28) and Karn Sharma (2/35), triggered a collapse in the middle overs. Virat Kohli's sharp fielding added to Punjab Kings' woes as they lost wickets in clusters, eventually folding for 181 in 17 overs.

Mohammed Siraj's fiery spell of 3/43 and Lockie Ferguson's two crucial wickets highlighted RCB's dominance with both bat and ball. The match showcased RCB's depth and resilience, while exposing Punjab Kings' vulnerabilities in the field and middle order.

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With this commanding win, RCB reaffirms their position as serious contenders in IPL 2024, while Punjab Kings has to step up in their remaining matches to stay in contention for the playoffs.