Dinesh Karthik’s Late Heroics Guide RCB to Thrilling Victory Over Punjab Kings
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a remarkable four-wicket victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday, thanks to a scintillating knock from Dinesh Karthik.
Chasing a challenging target of 177, RCB found themselves in a precarious position when Karthik came to the crease. However, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter displayed his trademark power-hitting prowess, smashing an unbeaten 28 off just 10 deliveries, including three fours and two sixes.
Karthik’s blistering innings, coupled with Virat Kohli’s solid 77 (49 balls), propelled RCB to victory with four balls to spare. The win was a crucial one for RCB, who had lost their previous two matches.
Speaking after the match, Karthik admitted to feeling some rustiness but expressed satisfaction with his performance. He praised the contributions of his teammates, particularly Mahipal Lomror, who played a crucial role in the chase.
“Little bit (dusting off the rustiness). I wasn’t completely in control, but getting there. We needed that (knock from Lomror), Anuj batted well last time, but when Mahipal walked out.. he took the pressure off me,” Karthik said.
Karthik also lauded the bowling of Harshal Patel, who picked up three wickets for RCB. He acknowledged Patel’s skill and the challenges he poses to batsmen.
“He (Harshal) is a wily customer, he has the dipping slower one and if you missed that you are a goner, I had to wait to play the scoop. I didn’t say anything, he (Lomror) was calm and when he hit that six, I just told him to keep a still head. If I start bowling then you can know what the situation would be for RCB,” Karthik added.
RCB’s victory was a testament to their resilience and the impact of their experienced players. Karthik’s late heroics and Kohli’s consistent performances have been instrumental in RCB’s resurgence this season.
