Bengaluru: Consecutive centuries by Virat Kohli has given his side a chance in the must-win game as his unbeaten 101 off 61 balls helped Royal Challengers Bangalore post 197/5 against Gujarat Titans at Chinnaswamy Stadium here on Sunday.
Kohli continued with his ravishing form which he had displayed in the last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, which kept Bangalore’s hopes alive.
This probably was Kohli’s best innings of late, which was in contrast to the one he played against Hyderabad. Against them, he was at his attacking best, pulversing their bowlers to all decks of the ground.
Today, Kohli’s innings was in a classical mould which was reflected in his boundaries column as he walloped only one six, but 13 boundaries were simply off the old block.
The King marshalled Bangalore’s innings, and ensured he did not lose his wicket to help his side post a commanding total.
After a good opening stand with Faf du Plessis (28 off 19 5x4s), Bangalore lost their way with three quick wickets, but Kohli staged a recovery with Michael Bracewell 26 off 16 5x4s) and again with Anuj Rawat (23 off 15 1×4 1×6) at the end.
Glenn Maxwell managed to score 11 off 5 balls, but not before whacking a six and a boundary. He was cleaned up by Rashid Khan, Mahipal Lomror (1) was stumped by Eriddhiman Saha off Noor Ahmad.
For Gujarat, Noor claimed 2 wickets and Mohammad Shami, Yash Dayal, and Rashid picked up a wicket each.
A cracking finish is on cards as Gujarat have an awesome record chasing, and bat deep. Can the hosts defend their score? Past midnight, the answer would come out for sure.
UNI
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