Ahmedabad: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) arrived in Ahmedabad riding high after a convincing nine-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals, where they restricted the hosts to just 75 runs. This win was anticipated to boost RCB’s confidence as they faced the inconsistent Gujarat Titans.
However, the match outcome defied expectations as the Gujarat side, led by Shubman Gill, secured a four-wicket victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Despite a formidable batting lineup, RCB struggled significantly, finishing their innings at 155 runs. Star player Virat Kohli provided a strong start with 28 runs off 13 balls, but the team quickly deteriorated after his dismissal, with wickets tumbling rapidly.
Devdutt Padikkal managed to keep the innings alive but received scant support from his teammates. The middle order faltered once again, with Jitesh Sharma scoring just one run, Tim David adding nine, and Krunal Pandya contributing four. Even the introduction of Venkatesh Iyer as an Impact Player didn’t change the course; he could only manage 12 runs off 15 balls.
On the bowling side, Gujarat’s bowlers delivered an exceptional performance. Arshad Khan took three wickets, while Rashid Khan and Jason Holder each captured two wickets, effectively bundling RCB out for 155 runs.
Gill, Buttler Shine in Gujarat’s Chase
Gujarat’s captain Shubman Gill set a dynamic pace for the chase, scoring 43 runs off 18 balls, while Jos Buttler supported him with a quick 39 off 19 deliveries. The opening partnership established a solid foundation for the home side. However, the middle order faced challenges and lost wickets intermittently.
RCB’s Bhuvneshwar Kumar had an impressive bowling performance, taking three wickets for 28 runs across four overs, but it was not enough to prevent Gujarat from chasing down the target comfortably. Had RCB managed to score a few more runs, the outcome might have been different, but ultimately, Gujarat completed the chase with 25 balls to spare.
