DC VS RCB: Krunal Pandya Guides Bengaluru to a 6-Wicket Win

DC VS RCB: Krunal Pandya’s explosive 73, combined with Virat Kohli’s 51, powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a 6-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.

With this stunning run chase, Royal Challengers Bengaluru made history in Delhi by becoming the first IPL team ever to win six consecutive away matches. The victory not only earned them two points but also propelled them to the top of the points table, reaching 14 points this season.

RCB’s innings had a disastrous start, crashing to 35/3 during the Powerplay as DC’s bowlers landed early blows. Although Jacob Bethell showed brief resistance, his dismissal, followed quickly by the wickets of Padikkal and Patidar, pushed RCB deeper into trouble.

Axar Patel’s tight early spell, combined with Karun Nair’s brilliant fielding — including a stunning catch and a sharp run-out which left RCB struggling for momentum in the opening phase.

Despite the early setbacks, Virat Kohli adjusted brilliantly, assuming the anchor’s role. He received valuable support from Krunal Pandya, and although the duo initially found it tough to break DC’s hold, they gradually steadied the ship.

When RCB’s chase seemed to be losing steam, Krunal Pandya sparked a turnaround with aggressive and calculated stroke play, targeting specific bowlers to regain momentum. Kohli, the master strategist, played a brilliant supporting role, keeping the innings steady.

Both batters completed well-deserved fifties, with Kohli securing his sixth fifty of the season, emphasizing his consistency. From a precarious 26/3, Kohli and Krunal stitched together a crucial 119-run stand for the fourth wicket, swinging the momentum entirely towards RCB.

Though Kohli was dismissed for 51 during the latter phase, he had already anchored RCB close to the win. Tim David needed just five deliveries to finish the job and guide the team over the line.

DC VS RCB: 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru asked Delhi Capitals to bat first. On a tricky, two-paced pitch, DC had a rocky start, with du Plessis finding it tough to pick up the scoring rate. Though KL Rahul chipped in with a handy 41, his dismissal came at a crucial time for RCB.

Later, Tristan Stubbs unleashed a late surge, helping DC cross the 160-run mark — but it ultimately fell short of a competitive total. 

For RCB, Bhuvneshwar Kumar showcased his bowling brilliance, grabbing an impressive three-wicket haul, while Josh Hazlewood also chipped in with a couple of wickets.

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