WATCH: Virat Kohli's Explicit Send-off To Rachin Ravindra In The IPL Opener
Television cameras caught Virat Kohli in an aggressive moment on the field as he gave an expletive-laden send-off to Chennai Super Kings opener Rachin Ravindra. Kohli, positioned in the deep, visibly expressed relief when Rachin was dismissed. The young debutant had posed a significant threat to the Royal Challengers Bangalore bowling lineup, effortlessly steering Chennai's chase of 174. Kohli's pumped-up demeanor was evident before he joined the celebration at the fall of the wicket in the middle.
Rachin Ravindra made a significant impact with the bat, delivering a decisive performance. The young New Zealand all-rounder, acquired for just Rs 1.8 crore at the auction, scored a brisk 37 runs off 15 balls, including 3 sixes and an equal number of boundaries. Prior to his batting heroics, Ravindra also showcased his prowess in the field by taking two stunning catches.
Rachin Ravindra displayed his fielding prowess in tandem with Ajinkya Rahane, executing a fine relay effort that resulted in the dismissal of Virat Kohli during Friday's match.
Also Read: IPL 2024: Rachin Ravindra Shines On Debut As CSK Beat RCB By 6 Wickets
Virat Kohli appeared rusty in his comeback to competitive cricket for the first time since January. He found it challenging to get into rhythm against the Chennai bowlers during the powerplay and faced difficulty in stabilizing the innings as Royal Challengers Bangalore lost several wickets quickly, slipping from 41 for 0 to 72 for 5. Kohli's innings was cut short by a bouncer from Mustafizur Rahman in the 12th over of the RCB innings. The former captain could only muster 21 runs from 20 balls in the IPL 2024 opener.
Anuj Rawat's knock of 48 runs and Dinesh Karthik's contribution of 38 runs propelled Bengaluru to a total of 173. However, despite a promising 95-run partnership for the 5th wicket, Chennai Super Kings managed to chase down the target in just 18.4 overs.
Royal Challengers Bangalore and Virat Kohli will aim for an improved performance as they host Punjab Kings in their upcoming match in Bengaluru on Monday, March 25th.
Also Read: WATCH: MS Dhoni’s Brilliant Run-Out Vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
