A sensational batting performance in the final five overs of their innings followed by a disciplined performance from the bowlers saw Bangalore register a 37-run victory over Chennai.
Here are the key talking points from the contest:
Kohli carries the batting unit
After two quality knocks in his past two matches, Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli announced his entry in the race for the Orange Cap with a sensational knock of 90 off 52 balls. Kohli led his team by example and forged an incredible 76-run partnership with all-rounder Shivam Dube that saw Bangalore go from 93/4 midway through the 15th over to 169 at the end of the innings. Kohli’s sensational knock proved to be the difference between the two sides on the day.
Ambati’s curious knock
After the early dismissals of openers Faf Du Plessis and Shane Watson, veteran Ambati Rayudu was left to shoulder the responsibility of batting through the innings and guiding his team home. However, Rayudu’s complete lack of intent saw him go at only a run-a-ball right till the end of the 17th over. He was finally dismissed in the 18th for 42 runs off 40 balls while attempting a wild heave, ending what was a rather bizarre innings from Chennai’s perspective.
Morris magic on debut
Bangalore were finally able to start their marquee signing from the auction, all-rounder Chris Morris, and his performance on debut proved just why the team was so keen on his services. The 33-year-old bowled with intent and stifled the Chennai batsmen for runs, recording incredible figures of 3-19 on debut. Morris also ran Chennai’s debutant Narayan Jagadeesan out with a brilliant throw in what was a dream debut for the veteran South African.
Is this the end?
After this defeat, Chennai, having played a game more, are four points behind fourth-placed Bangalore who have played a game fewer than them. Chennai are the only team to have qualified for the playoffs in every season that they played in the Indian T20 League. However, never has the possibility of missing the playoffs loomed so large over the three-time champions. With just seven games left, time is running out for Chennai to turn the tide around and rescue their proud record.
Feature image courtesy: Twitter.com / Indian T20 League
