The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their place in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs with a thrilling 27-run victory over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.

Openers Shine Before Rain Disrupts Play

RCB openers Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis provided a solid foundation for their side, setting the tone for a big total. Kohli, in a historic feat, became the first player to eclipse the 3,000-run mark at a single IPL venue with his 47-run knock. Du Plessis also chipped in with a well-made fifty before a controversial run-out decision halted his progress.

Patidar and Green Propel RCB to Imposing Total

Rain halted play midway through the innings, but Rajat Patidar and Cameron Green ensured RCB maintained momentum after the resumption. Patidar's blistering 41 off just 22 deliveries and Green's unbeaten 38 propelled the hosts to a formidable total of 218/5 in their allotted 20 overs.

CSK Falter in Chase

Chasing 201 for a playoff berth due to their superior run rate, CSK's hopes suffered a blow early on as Ruturaj Gaikwad departed on the very first ball of the innings. Despite a valiant 61 from Rachin Ravindra, a string of crucial wickets, including a sensational catch by Faf du Plessis to dismiss Mitchell Santner, left CSK in a precarious position.

Dhoni, Jadeja Fall Short as RCB Celebrate Famous Victory

MS Dhoni's late cameo of 25 runs and Ravindra Jadeja's unbeaten 42 offered a glimmer of hope for CSK, but they ultimately fell short of the target. RCB's bowlers held their nerve to secure a dramatic victory and book their place in the IPL playoffs, sparking jubilation among the home crowd.