In a major boost for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), legendary cricketer AB de Villiers has arrived in India to support the team ahead of their crucial eliminator match against the Rajasthan Royals. The match, scheduled for May 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat, is a critical fixture as the winner will advance to Qualifier 2.
AB de Villiers’ Return to India
AB de Villiers, fondly known as “Mr. 360” for his versatile batting style, expressed his excitement about being back in India for the IPL knockouts.
De Villiers said “Love coming to Mumbai, I am here for IPL Knockouts – RCB qualified for playoffs, we all are so excited – Go RCB”.
His presence is expected to be a significant morale booster for the RCB squad, who have historically fallen short of clinching the IPL title despite reaching the finals thrice.
RCB’s Road to the Playoffs
Royal Challengers Bangalore secured their place in the playoffs after a thrilling victory over Chennai Super Kings. The match saw Bangalore winning by 27 runs, thanks to a stellar performance by Yash Dayal in the final over, where he conceded only 7 runs and took one wicket, ensuring Bangalore’s playoff berth. RCB finished fourth in the points table, setting up the eliminator clash against third-placed Rajasthan Royals.
Bangalore’s Playoff History
RCB’s journey in the IPL has seen them reach the finals three times—in 2009, 2011, and 2016. However, they have not yet managed to lift the coveted trophy. This year, the team, along with their fans and former players, is hopeful of breaking the jinx and winning their first IPL title.
Playoff Schedule
- May 21: Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad, Ahmedabad (Qualifier 1)
- May 22: Rajasthan Royals vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore, Ahmedabad (Eliminator)
- May 24: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs. Eliminator Winner, Chennai (Qualifier 2)
- May 26: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs. Qualifier 2 Winner, Chennai (Final)
The eliminator match will be a high-stakes encounter, with the winner moving on to face the loser of Qualifier 1 in Chennai. RCB’s fans, affectionately known as the “12th Man Army,” are eagerly waiting to see their team perform and advance further in the tournament.
Excitement Among Fans and Former Players
The excitement isn’t limited to just the current squad. Former players like Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers have shown immense support, with Gayle attending a recent match at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Social media is abuzz with reactions from fans hoping to see RCB finally win the IPL title this year.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
