Initially, a streak of losses, and towards the end, consecutive wins changed the tournament equation altogether. This has become RCB’s tradition. Their lineup remains unchanged this time as well.
Even after digesting the bitter pill of consecutive losses, they can still turn things around. Who would believe without Virat Kohli’s brigade? Several teams felt the pressure of reaching the playoffs in the race for the top five spots.
Following the hat-trick of losses, the word “farewell” was associated with Bangalore. The trophy slipping away on March 17 had already mentally prepared the RCB devotees.
But the way the team bounced back amidst the disappointment of defeat revived supporters’ dreams. On Sunday, Faf du Plessis and company kept RCB’s playoff hopes alive by losing to Delhi by 47 runs.
One match was suspended due to the slow over-rate, which put pressure on Punjab. Consequently, Delhi was responsible for Sunday’s duties. Virat sent them to bat after winning the toss. Kohli got out for 27 runs. Faf returned with just 6 runs.
However, the middle order held the reins. Wheel Jacks, Rajat Patidar, and Cameron Green (32*) took the team to a fighting position.
And then came the ball in Yash Dayal’s hand. Taking three wickets for 20 runs in 3.1 overs, he lifted three wickets. Lockie Ferguson took a pair of wickets. RCB’s bowlers restricted Delhi to 140 runs.
As Delhi’s journey ends like Delhi’s, the road to the playoffs is still open for Bangalore. If they manage to defeat Chennai in the next match, their place in the playoffs will be confirmed. Now, can Kohli and company achieve a winning hat-trick this time?
