IPL 2024, PBKS vs RCB Highlights: Virat Kohli powered Royal Challengers Bangalore to an imposing total of 241/7 in 20 overs with an impressive 92 off just 47 balls. In response, Punjab Kings were bowled out for 181, resulting in a 60-run victory for RCB. This was RCB’s fourth straight win, reinforcing their push for a spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs, while PBKS, with this loss, are out of contention.
Kohli’s 92 was the cornerstone of RCB’s batting, and he fell in the 18th over, narrowly missing a 100th career century across formats. Rajat Patidar played a crucial role, hitting 55 from 23 balls and sharing a 76-run partnership with Kohli in just 32 balls for the third wicket. After Patidar’s dismissal, rain briefly interrupted play, but upon resuming, Kohli partnered with Cameron Green to add another 92 runs from 46 balls, with Green contributing a brisk 46 from 27 balls.
Punjab Kings, led by Sam Curran due to Shikhar Dhawan’s injury, won the toss and opted to bowl, seeking a crucial win in Dharamsala. Unfortunately, they were overpowered by RCB’s batting onslaught. The match had high stakes, as both teams were fighting for survival in the IPL, aiming for a playoff spot. RCB, once struggling early in the season, have now turned their fortunes around with this fourth consecutive win. Their revival has put them back in playoff contention, elevating them to seventh on the points table with 14 points from 11 games.
The RCB batting lineup, led by the consistent Virat Kohli and the resurgent captain Faf du Plessis, has gained strength from emerging talents like Will Jacks and Cameron Green, who have added much-needed depth. On the bowling front, Mohammed Siraj has been impressive, leading the attack with pace and precision, contributing to RCB’s current winning form.
Meanwhile, PBKS’s season has been marked by inconsistency, reflected in their recent collapse against Chennai Super Kings. Despite some notable away victories, they have struggled to maintain momentum, especially at home. The eighth-place Punjab Kings, with the same number of points as RCB, faced a do-or-die situation. Their unpredictability, once an asset, has become a liability, and their playoff hopes now rest on their ability to overcome inconsistency and beat top teams like RCB.
Both teams entered this game knowing its critical importance, and while RCB’s solid performance secured their fourth straight win, PBKS’s loss confirmed their exit from playoff contention. The stage was set for a gripping battle, but only one team emerged victorious, reinforcing the intense competition in this year’s IPL.
