Picture Credit: BCCI
Royal Challengers Bengaluru registered a commanding five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants. The side completed the chase of 147 in only 15.1 overs at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday.
The victory propelled the Royal Challengers Bengaluru back to the summit of the points table. It took their tally to eight points from five matches.
RCB approached the chase steadily, managing a quiet opening with minimal scoring. Phil Salt had an early escape after a near run-out but failed to capitalise, as Prince Yadav bowled him for 7 soon after.
Virat Kohli then shifted momentum decisively, striking multiple boundaries against Mohammed Shami and Prince Yadav in quick succession. His attacking intent ensured RCB surged to 60/1 at the end of the powerplay.
Kohli maintained control of the innings with a blend of aggressive stroke play and intelligent strike rotation. He fell just short of a half-century as a fielder caught him in the deep for 49 in the 13th over.
Rajat Patidar contributed a quickfire 27. Jitesh Sharma added impetus. His entertaining cameo included several boundaries and sixes.
Although RCB lost a couple of wickets in the latter stages, Tim David and Romario Shepherd ensured a smooth finish. Both batters remained unbeaten on 14, sealing the win with 29 deliveries remaining.
Prince Yadav emerged as the most effective bowler for LSG with three wickets, while Avesh Khan chipped in with two.
Earlier in the match, Lucknow Super Giants struggled to gain momentum after being sent in to bat. Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram found it difficult to score freely against the disciplined bowling of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood.
Markram was dismissed early, and captain Rishabh Pant was forced to retire hurt following an elbow injury. Nicholas Pooran also failed to convert his start, adding to LSG’s troubles.
Marsh top-scored with 40, while Ayush Badoni (38) and Mukul Choudhary (39) attempted to stabilise the innings. Consistent breakthroughs prevented any substantial partnership.
Rasikh Salam Dar led the bowling effort with four wickets, supported by Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s three, as RCB restricted LSG to a below-par total.
Brief Scores: Lucknow Super Giants 146 all out in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 40, Mukul Choudhary 39; Rasikh Dar 4/24, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3/27) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 149/5 in 15.1 overs (Virat Kohli 49, Rajat Patidar 27; Prince Yadav 3/32, Avesh Khan 2/23) by five wickets.
Also Read: Rasikh Dar’s 4-Wicket Haul Helps RCB Bowl Out LSG For 146 In IPL 2026 Clash
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