RCB Triumphs Over CSK in IPL Match at Chepauk Stadium

RCB's Victory Highlights Strong Bowling Performance

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 29: After leading his team to victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar remarked on the pitch's favorable conditions for spinners, noting that Josh Hazlewood's initial over during the powerplay was pivotal.

RCB achieved a convincing 50-run victory over CSK in their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter held at Chepauk Stadium on Thursday, thanks to impressive bowling from Hazlewood and Yash Dayal.

In the post-match presentation, Rajat expressed confidence in the total his team set, stating it was sufficient for the conditions. He mentioned, “The ball was stopping a bit, making it challenging for the batters. Playing at Chepauk against Chennai is always special due to the fans' support. We aimed for around 200 runs, knowing the chase wouldn't be easy. My focus was clear: I aimed to keep pushing with every ball. We maintained the same batting lineup as the last match. The pitch was particularly beneficial for spinners, and the way (Liam) Livingstone bowled was exceptional. Hazlewood's first over was a game-changer, as we took 2-3 wickets during the powerplay.”

This victory marked RCB's first win against CSK at their home ground, Chepauk Stadium, since 2008.

In the match, CSK won the toss and opted to bowl first. Phil Salt made a quick 34 runs off 16 balls, hitting five fours and a six, while Virat Kohli struggled with 31 runs off 30 balls. After a solid 45-run opening partnership, Devdutt Paddikal contributed 27 runs off 14 balls, and Rajat Patidar scored 51 runs off 32 balls, forming crucial partnerships. Tim David's late innings of 22 not out off eight balls helped RCB reach a total of 196/7 in their 20 overs.

Noor Ahmad was the standout bowler for CSK, taking 3 wickets for 36 runs, while Matheesha Pathirana also performed well with 2 wickets for 36 runs.

During CSK's chase, RCB's bowlers effectively contained the batters, with Hazlewood claiming 3 wickets for just 21 runs, dismissing Rahul Tripathi and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad in his first over. Rachin Ravindra managed to score 41 runs off 31 balls, but Yash Dayal (2/18) and Liam Livingstone (2/28) ensured he lacked support. MS Dhoni contributed a quick 30 runs off 16 balls, but RCB successfully restricted CSK to 146/8.

Patidar was awarded the 'Player of the Match' title for his outstanding performance.