RCB’s Dream Run Ends in IPL Eliminator at Ahmedabad: Questions Remain About Flat Pitches
Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) incredible comeback story has come to an end after a narrow defeat to the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL Eliminator. Despite winning six consecutive matches to qualify for the playoffs, RCB fell short in Ahmedabad.
The match highlighted a growing concern in the IPL: flat pitches. Chasing a score of 172 on a batting paradise like Ahmedabad was never an insurmountable task for the Rajasthan Royals. This raises questions about the selection of venues, with many high-scoring, one-sided games witnessed throughout the season.
Fighting Spirit, Flat Pitch Frustration
RCB deserves immense credit for their fighting spirit. Discarded by many after a poor start, they clawed their way back into contention. However, the lack of a competitive pitch in Ahmedabad ultimately hampered their efforts. A score of even 200 might not have been enough on this surface.
The focus on entertainment and big hitting seems to be overshadowing the balance between bat and ball. The BCCI and IPL need to take a closer look at pitch preparation to ensure a more even contest. This constant stream of high-scoring encounters, often decided within 18-19 overs, is detrimental to the excitement and spirit of the game.
Kohli’s Frustration Continues, Maxwell’s Missed Opportunity
While Virat Kohli played a decent knock, a more substantial contribution from him could have changed the game’s course. Additionally, the decision to retain Glenn Maxwell, who was out of form and dropped a crucial catch, backfired for RCB. With Maxwell struggling, a different player in better touch might have been a better option.
This loss will leave RCB with plenty to ponder in the off-season. They need to address their batting woes and make smarter decisions regarding player selection based on current form and pitch conditions.
RCB’s Dream Run Ends: Royals Seal Qualifier 2 Berth
Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) incredible comeback this season fell short in the crucial Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals (RR). While there were fielding errors and dropped catches that could have swung the game, RCB ultimately fell victim to a slightly under-par batting performance and some key moments seized by RR.
The 172-run target set by RCB, despite valuable contributions from Rajat Patidar and Mahipal Lomror, was deemed insufficient as the pitch offered more batting comfort later in the innings. Patidar’s wicket, in particular, was a turning point, as his dismissal potentially robbed RCB of a much-needed anchor.
Credit must be given to Rajasthan Royals for their clinical display. The inclusion of Shimron Hetmyer significantly bolstered their batting lineup, and he eased the chase considerably.
While Mohammed Siraj provided a late fightback with two quick wickets, Rovman Powell effectively sealed the deal for RR in the 19th over, sending RCB packing and extending Virat Kohli’s wait for an IPL trophy for another year.
