RCB Falls Short Against SRH Despite Kohli's Strong Start

In a gripping match in Lucknow, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fell short in their chase of 232 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Despite a strong start from Virat Kohli, who scored 43 runs, RCB struggled after losing key wickets. Analyst Varun Aaron emphasized Kohli's crucial role in the team's chase strategy and raised concerns about the middle-order performance. This defeat could serve as a wake-up call for RCB as they prepare for the playoffs, highlighting the need for better synergy between their top and middle-order batsmen. Read on for a detailed analysis of the match and its implications for RCB's future.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 24, 2025, 17:10 IST

RCB's Challenging Chase in Lucknow

In a thrilling encounter in Lucknow, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) struggled to meet the daunting target of 232 runs set by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Former RCB captain Virat Kohli showcased his batting prowess, scoring a brisk 43 runs off just 25 balls, which included seven fours and a massive six. He and Phil Salt provided a solid opening partnership, but the team's momentum faltered after their dismissals.

Varun Aaron, a JioStar analyst and ex-India pacer, emphasized Kohli's pivotal role in RCB's chase strategy. He remarked, "He always begins the chase with vigor—his love for chasing is evident."

Aaron pointed out that this match marked the first instance where RCB lost a chase without Kohli scoring a fifty, highlighting his importance to the team's success.

He praised Kohli's classic batting style, noting that it often serves as the backbone for RCB's aggressive chases, stating, "He maintains stability and focuses on quality batting rather than flashy shots."

However, the match took a downturn after Phil Salt's promising innings. Although he started strong, his dismissal by SRH captain Pat Cummins disrupted RCB's rhythm, according to Aaron.

"Phil Salt's early exit came at a critical moment; he should have taken more time to stabilize the innings. After that, RCB struggled to regain their momentum," he explained.

Concerns were also raised about Rajat Patidar's performance, as his strike rate lingered around 120, indicating issues with RCB's middle-order consistency.

"Rajat Patidar's strike rate remains a worry; his current form is concerning," Aaron noted. Despite the setback, he suggested that this defeat could be a blessing in disguise for RCB, serving as a wake-up call before the playoffs.

As the race for playoff positions intensifies, this loss may prompt the Bengaluru team to refine their lineup and ensure their top-order batsmen align better with a more reliable middle order.