Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) talismanic batter Virat Kohli has reclaimed the coveted IPL 2024 Orange Cap, awarded to the tournament’s leading run-scorer. Kohli, who had been trailing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad by nine runs, surged ahead with a blistering 42 off 27 deliveries against Gujarat Titans (GT).
Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, featuring two boundaries and four maximums. However, his stay at the crease was cut short by a clever googly from GT’s young spinner Noor Ahmad. The Afghanistan youngster induced an outside edge from Kohli, which was safely pouched by Wriddhiman Saha behind the stumps.
In a heartwarming gesture, Kohli acknowledged Noor’s brilliance by gifting him his signed matchworn jersey after the game. Noor expressed his gratitude on Instagram, calling Kohli “one of my fav.”
GT’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing three wickets for just 19 runs within the first six overs. However, big-hitter Shahrukh Khan (37) and David Miller (30) steadied the ship with a 61-run partnership. Rahul Tewatia’s quickfire 35 off 21 balls and a crucial stand with Rashid Khan helped GT post a respectable total of 147.
Mohammed Siraj, who dismissed both GT openers, was named man of the match for his impressive figures of 2-29. However, the pacer revealed that he almost missed the game due to illness.
In reply, RCB openers Faf du Plessis (64) and Kohli laid the foundation with a 92-run stand in just 35 balls. Despite a mid-innings collapse that saw RCB lose four wickets in quick succession, Dinesh Karthik (21) and Swapnil Singh (15) ensured a comfortable victory with 6.2 overs to spare.
