Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) registered a convincing 18-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 43 of IPL 2023 at Ekana Cricket Stadium on Monday (May 1).
Opting to bat first, RCB posted a modest 126/9 in their allotted 20 overs on a very sluggish pitch. Skipper Faf du Plessis top scored with 44 off 40 balls while his predecessor Virat Kohli chipped in with 30-ball 31.
In reply, LSG’s innings folded for 108 in 19.5 overs. Although the track was difficult to bat on, it was an abysmal batting display from the home team. Lucknow’s batters lacked application as they lost half their side for just 38 runs and thanks to the contribution from lower order, they managed to cross the 100-run mark.
Speaking after the game, RCB captain Du Plessis said it was important to bat first on this wicket while adding that his 62-run partnership with Kohli was a match-changing stand.
“Chinnaswamy and this are 2 complete opposites. I thought we played really well in the first 6 overs batting first, I think it was a match changing partnership,” said Du Plessis at the post-match presentation ceremony.
“I think batting first here was important. In my mind 135 was a really good score. Myself and DK were saying 135 would be a really good score but once you come in on the pitch it gets very hard to score. Before we went on to the field, we said to the guys that we feel it’s a match-winning score because the nature of the wicket,” he added.
Playing his first game in the IPL 2023 after recovering from Achilles injury, pacer Josh Hazlewood starred with the ball for RCB, claiming two wickets for 15 runs in his three overs. Spinner Karn Sharma also returned with impressive figures of 2/20 in his four-over spell.
“I am super happy for Karn. He's just one of those guys who does all the hard work all the time. Doesn't always get the recognition. Unbelievable from him tonight and then Hazlewood, its great to have him back in the side. Someone like him brings so much calmness and composure to the bowling attack,” said Du Plessis.
Royal Challengers Bangalore will next face Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on May 6.
