Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Rajat Patidar has hailed the positive influence of teammate Virat Kohli, crediting his energy on the field for motivating the entire team throughout their remarkable comeback story in IPL 2024. This comes after RCB secured a dramatic playoff berth with a thrilling 27-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
RCB Completes Unlikely Playoff Push
RCB’s journey to the playoffs has been nothing short of extraordinary. After a disastrous start to the season, losing seven of their first eight matches, they found themselves languishing at the bottom of the points table. Written off by many, the team displayed unwavering belief and fearless cricket in the remaining matches, stringing together a winning streak of six consecutive victories. Favourable results from other teams further aided their climb to the top four.
Speaking after the win, Patidar highlighted the impact of Virat Kohli’s leadership. “Virat Kohli bhaiya’s [brother’s] energy is infectious on the field,” Patidar said. “Whether we are behind or ahead in the match, his energy always lifts the whole team. His presence on the field motivates us and gives us the confidence to play better.”
Belief and Experience Fuel RCB’s Resurgence
Patidar also emphasized the team’s unwavering belief in their ability to turn things around. “We believed that we could change the points table,” he declared. “It has happened before, and RCB has done it in the past. We had examples and experienced players around us, so it was a great environment. Everyone believed we could change this.”
Patidar acknowledged the invaluable guidance he received from senior players like Dinesh Karthik, Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Cameron Green. “My role was clear, and all I wanted to do was execute it correctly,” he stated. “Our team has many experienced players, and the things I’ve gotten a chance to learn from them have helped me a lot.”
Patidar’s Contributions Key to RCB’s Success
Patidar himself has played a crucial role in RCB’s success. In 14 matches and 12 innings this season, he has amassed 361 runs at an average of 30.08 and a strike rate of 179.60, with five well-constructed fifties. His quickfire half-centuries and ability to counter spin bowling attacks were instrumental in RCB’s qualification based on net run rate.
The match itself was a nail-biting affair. After opting to bat first, CSK set a target of 219 runs. RCB responded with a strong batting performance, with contributions from Faf du Plessis (54), Virat Kohli (47), Rajat Patidar (41), and Cameron Green (38*) propelling them to a competitive total. Dinesh Karthik and Glenn Maxwell added valuable late cameos to ensure RCB crossed the 200-run mark.
RCB Holds Nerve in Tense Chase
Needing to restrict CSK to 201 runs or less to qualify for the playoffs, RCB bowlers started well, reducing CSK to 19/2 early on. However, fifties from Rachin Ravindra (61) and Ajinkya Rahane (33) brought CSK back into contention. Just when it seemed like the match was slipping away, RCB bowlers clawed their way back, dismissing wickets at regular intervals. A late partnership between Ravindra Jadeja (42*) and MS Dhoni (25*) threatened to derail RCB’s plans, but young pacer Yash Dayal held his nerve in the final over, restricting CSK to 191/7 and securing a thrilling victory for his team.
With this win, RCB has booked their place in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Their remarkable comeback story is a testament to the team’s unwavering belief, fighting spirit, and the positive influence of senior players like Virat Kohli.
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