Lucknow, 24 May (H.S.): In a dramatic repeat of yesterday IPL action, a team eliminated from playoff contention set a daunting target of over 230 against a desperate side aiming for a top-two finish. Following the Lucknow Super Giants’ success against Gujarat Titans, the Sunrisers Hyderabad outperformed the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 42 runs, leaving RCB reliant on other match outcomes to secure their playoff position.

RCB appeared in control with stand-in captain Jitesh and regular captain Patidar at the crease, despite losing Mayank and Salt quickly. However, excellent bowling from SRH increased the pressure, resulting in RCB crumbling and losing their last seven wickets for just 16 runs, finishing their innings at 189 while chasing 232. This defeat dropped RCB below Punjab Kings in net run rate, a crucial factor as the league stage nears its end.

RCB’s innings began with an explosive start led by Kohli and Salt, the latter returning from injury to score 62 off 32 balls. SRH’s captain had impressive bowling figures of 3/28, but the team’s overall success stemmed from coordinated efforts in the middle overs. Notable mishaps in RCB’s running and the compromised performance of Tim David also played a role in their downfall.

Initially, RCB opted to field and soon regretted it as Travis Head and Abhishek established a quick 50-run partnership before both fell at 54 runs.

Ishan Kishan, after a slow period with only 125 runs in ten innings, anchored a dynamic SRH innings to 231, scoring an unbeaten 94 off 48, contributing 54 of the final 86 runs as partners fell,while Klassen and Aniket contributed valuable runs, propelling SRH to a formidable score of 231/6. RCB bowlers struggled, especially in the first half, missing the presence of Josh Hazlewood, with Romario Shepherd being the standout bowler with figures of 2/14.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar