Kohli, Salt Lead RCB Victory over RR
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) reinforced their reputation as formidable travellers in the 2025 Indian Premier League, securing their fourth consecutive away victory with a convincing performance against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur on Sunday, April 13th. A commanding opening partnership, featuring Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, ensured RCB chased down Rajasthan's target with relative ease, highlighting contrasting fortunes for the two teams.
Only Jaiswal Anchored Royals
After being asked to bat first, Rajasthan Royals posted a total of 173, largely thanks to a determined innings from opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. He scored a well-compiled 75 off 47 balls, anchoring the innings on a pitch offering low bounce. However, Jaiswal received limited support from the rest of the batting lineup. Captain Sanju Samson failed to make a significant impact, and concerns continue to mount over the form of the middle order, particularly senior batsman Shimron Hetmyer, who managed only 9 runs from 8 deliveries when acceleration was needed. The lack of substantial partnerships meant RR finished with a score that felt below par.
Opening Partnership Sets Tone for RCB Victory
RCB's openers made batting look straightforward. Phil Salt adopted the aggressor role early on, smashing a quickfire 65 off just 33 balls, providing the chase with significant momentum. He shared a commanding 92-run opening stand with Virat Kohli. After Salt's dismissal, Kohli seamlessly transitioned into the lead role. Pacing his innings expertly, he reached a personal milestone – his 100th fifty in T20 cricket – and guided RCB towards the target with characteristic composure, remaining unbeaten to see his team home.
Bad Fielding made Rajasthan pay
While the match featured several dropped catches from both sides, Rajasthan Royals were left to rue their lapses more significantly. Crucial chances to dismiss both Kohli and Salt early in their innings were put down, errors proved for RCB, who won by nine wickets. This victory elevates RCB to third on the points table.
