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

In a match that went down to the final over, RCB emerged victorious, denying CSK a chance to qualify for the playoffs.

CSK needed 17 runs in the last over to clinch their playoff spot.

Yash Dayal’s first delivery was a full toss that MS Dhoni smashed for a colossal 110-meter six over fine-leg, setting the stage for a potential comeback.

However, Dhoni’s attempt to hit the second ball out of the park resulted in a comfortable catch at square-leg.

Shardul Thakur’s subsequent miss and single brought Ravindra Jadeja on strike, needing 10 runs off the last two balls.

Dayal’s composed bowling ensured that Jadeja couldn’t produce any more miracles, sealing RCB’s qualification with disciplined slower deliveries.

Earlier, CSK had won the toss and opted to bowl, knowing they had to restrict RCB’s total to maintain a manageable chase.

Despite early setbacks, RCB posted a formidable 218, thanks to crucial contributions from Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and a late blitz from Rajat Patidar and Cameron Green.

Kohli and du Plessis initially took charge, with Kohli’s audacious flick over mid-wicket off Tushar Deshpande highlighting the early aggression.

A brief rain interruption seemed to favor CSK, but du Plessis and Patidar’s resilience ensured a strong recovery. Patidar’s 41 off 23 and Green’s unbeaten 38 off 17 powered RCB to a competitive total.

In response, CSK’s chase faltered early as Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed off the first ball.

A critical 66-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Ajinkya Rahane stabilized the innings, but regular wickets kept the pressure on CSK.

Rahane’s departure for 33, followed by Ravindra’s run-out for 61, left CSK reeling.

Shivam Dube and Mitchell Santner failed to capitalize on their starts, further denting CSK’s hopes.

Jadeja’s late heroics, including a crucial 50 and a few big hits, brought CSK close, but it wasn’t enough.

Dhoni’s entry added drama to the chase, and despite his and Jadeja’s best efforts, CSK fell short, ending at 190 for eight.

RCB’s bowlers, particularly Dayal and Lockie Ferguson, held their nerves in the death overs, ensuring the victory.

The win propels RCB into the playoffs, keeping their title hopes alive, while CSK faces elimination in a season of near-misses.

This thrilling encounter between two IPL heavyweights provided fans with a memorable match, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of T20 cricket.

RCB will now look forward to continuing their form in the playoffs, aiming for their maiden IPL title.