PBKS vs RCB IPL 2024: Virat Kohli's electrifying presence sets up crucial win for RCB against Punjab Kings

Dharamshala: Royal Challengers Bengaluru's captain Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli celebrates the wicekt of Punjab Kings’ Liam Livingstone during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 T20 cricket match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at HPCA Stadium, in Dharamshala, Thursday, May 9, 2024. (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary) (PTI05_09_2024_000382B)

Virat Kohli once again proved his mettle as a dynamic force on the cricket field, showcasing his prowess in both batting and fielding during Thursday's thrilling encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.

Taking charge at his customary opening position for RCB, Kohli's bat ignited with a stunning innings, amassing 92 runs off just 47 deliveries, embellished with 6 sixes and 7 fours. His stellar performance propelled RCB to a formidable total of 241 for 7, with Rajat Patidar (55 off 23 balls) and Cameron Green (46 off 27 balls) providing vital contributions in the middle and final overs helping beat Punjab Kings by 60 runs.

Despite facing early setbacks with two dropped catches at 0 and 10, Kohli, the current holder of the Orange Cap, has amassed an impressive tally of 634 runs in 12 innings, joining KL Rahul as the only batsmen to achieve 600-plus runs in four IPL seasons.

In the bowling department, Harshal Patel shone for RCB, claiming 3 wickets for 38 runs, securing the Purple Cap with a total of 20 wickets in 12 innings.

Punjab's run-chase faltered, culminating in a total of 181 all out in 17 overs, despite Rilee Rossouw's valiant effort of 61 runs off 27 balls. Mohammed Siraj led RCB's bowling attack with figures of 3 for 43, supported by Swapnil Singh, Lockie Ferguson, and Karn Sharma, who each claimed two wickets.

Kohli's exceptional fielding prowess was highlighted by a remarkable run-out of Shashank Singh, who scored a brisk 37 off 19 balls. Racing in from deep mid-wicket, Kohli executed a lightning-fast one-handed pick-up and direct hit to dismiss Shashank, whose bat was found short of the crease upon review by the third umpire.

The CHEETAH run out by Kohlipic.twitter.com/sye5Bx5KXp

— POTT⁷⁶⁵ (@KlolZone) May 9, 2024

RCB's victory marked their fourth consecutive win and fifth overall, propelling them to 10 points and revitalizing their playoff aspirations.