Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finished at the fourth spot in IPL 2024 points table after defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 27 runs in a crucial fixture at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.
RCB completed one of the most remarkable comebacks in the history of the IPL's league stage by winning their sixth match in a row and qualifying for the playoffs.
IPL 2024 Points Table
The hosts posted a score of 218/5 while batting first, and CSK needed to score at least 201 runs to retain fourth place. Although Rachin Ravindra (61) and Ajinkya Rahane (33) appeared to have revived CSK's hopes, RCB continued to chip away at regular phases.
Ravindra Jadeja (42*) shared a 61-run partnership with MS Dhoni, scoring in just 27 balls. At this point, the focus was entirely on the total that CSK needed to achieve to reach the playoffs.
In the final over, CSK required 17 runs to qualify. Yash Dayal was the bowler, and Dhoni reduced the deficit to 11 runs needed off five balls by hitting a six off the first delivery.
However, Dhoni was dismissed on the very next ball, and Dayal kept his cool, conceding just one more run in the rest of the over. RCB thus recorded their sixth consecutive win and qualified for the playoffs.
Earlier, Gaikwad won the toss and chose to bowl. Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis smashed 31 runs in three overs before rain interrupted play and forced the players off the field.
RCB put their feet on the paddle after the resumption, regardless of losing wickets. Kohli (47) and Du Plessis (54), and later Rajat Patidar (41) and Cameron Green (38*), resisted CSK's spinners.
RCB's veterans put up a partnership of 78 runs in 58 balls, followed by Du Plessis sharing a 35-run stand in 20 balls. This was followed by a blistering 71-run partnership between Patidar and Green off just 28 balls, leading the home side to a total of 218/5.
Remaining IPL 2024 matches schedule:
May 19: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings & Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders
May 21: Qualifier 1
May 22: Eliminator
May 24: Qualifier 2
May 26: Final