The IPL 2024 Eliminator witnessed an enthralling showdown between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), with both teams battling it out for a spot in the Qualifier 2 encounter. Skipper Sanju Samson’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss set the stage for a captivating clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Sanju Samson’s tactical decision to opt for fielding first aimed to capitalize on the dew factor, a crucial consideration in night matches. While RCB retained their lineup, RR welcomed back Shimron Hetmyer into their playing XI, adding depth to their batting order.

First Half Highlights: RCB’s Innings

RCB’s openers, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, adopted a cautious approach in the initial overs, respecting Trent Boult’s swing. Their focus on rotating the strike while seeking boundaries laid a solid foundation for the innings. A strategic time-out marked the conclusion of the first phase of RCB’s innings, with the team posting a steady total of 56/1. The departure of du Plessis, caught splendidly by Rovman Powell, brought Cameron Green to the crease, adding depth to RCB’s batting lineup.

Despite losing Kohli’s wicket to Yuzvendra Chahal, RCB’s middle order, led by Cameron Green and Rajat Patidar, displayed resilience, stitching together crucial partnerships. However, Ravichandran Ashwin’s pivotal oversaw the departure of Green and Glenn Maxwell, altering the momentum in RR’s favour.

Second Half Highlights: RR’s Bowling Display

Despite facing challenges, Avesh Khan’s persistent bowling paid dividends, as he accounted for the dismissals of Patidar and, later, Dinesh Karthik. A controversial umpiring decision spared Karthik, prolonging RCB’s innings.

Death Overs Drama

Mahipal Lomror and Karthik sought to propel RCB’s total with aggressive stroke play as the match approached its climax. However, Avesh Khan’s fiery spell yielded crucial breakthroughs, ensuring RR restricted RCB to a competitive total of 172/8.