ABU DHABI: A fantastic bowling by Sun Risers Hyderabad (SRH) surprised Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) chasing a modest total of 141. RCB choked in the last few overs to fall short of 4 runs.
SRH scored 141 runs for 7 wickets in 20 overs after being invited to bat by RCB with contributions from Jason Roy (44 runs) and K.Williamson (31 runs). Chasing a modest score RCB was in control most of the innings with Maxwell scoring 40 runs off 25 balls and Padikkal scoring 41 runs off 52 balls. When the RCB score was 92, Maxwell’s wicket fell in the 14th over and soon after when the total 109, Padikkal fell as the 5th wicket. Thereafter disciplined bowling by Sun Risers till the end of the innings saw RCB’s AB de Villiers standing at the crease with 6 runs required in one ball. SRH was able to secure the win by 4 runs.
Outcome of today’s match did not impact the rankings in the points table. If RCB had won they had a good chance to become one of the top 2 teams. However, they lost a good opportunity and with only one more match to go may remain at 3rd place. Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings would be joyful with this SRH win since they both now have higher chance to retain their position as the top 2 teams in the points table.
Kane Williamson was named the man of the match for his valuable 31runs off 29 balls and remarkable leadership in securing a win.(RZ)
