IPL 2024 (Match 19) – Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore
In a thrilling showcase of skill and poise, Jos Buttler marked his 100th IPL appearance with a scintillating 58-ball century, propelling the Rajasthan Royals to a convincing victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. This innings not only heralded a return to form for Buttler but also secured Rajasthan their fourth consecutive win in the IPL 2024 season.
The Royals, chasing a substantial yet achievable target set by RCB, witnessed Buttler unleashing his full prowess. His innings was punctuated with crisp, powerful strokes, driving the team towards the target with confidence. He reached his century in grand style, hitting the winning runs with a majestic six over midwicket to remain unbeaten on 100. Alongside him, Sanju Samson contributed a valuable 69 off 42 balls, and their partnership amassed 148 runs for the second wicket, the highest of the season, surpassing the earlier record set on the same day by Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis.
Earlier in the day, Kohli had crafted a masterful 113 from 67 balls, showcasing his class in what turned out to be his slowest IPL century. Despite Kohli’s efforts, the only substantial support came from du Plessis, as the duo put up a 125-run stand for the first wicket. Unfortunately for RCB, no other batter crossed the double-digit mark, leaving them at a slightly underwhelming 183/3 from their 20 overs.
The Royals’ chase began on a shaky note with Yashasvi Jaiswal exiting for a duck. However, Buttler quickly shifted gears by scooping Dinesh Karthik for a boundary over the wicket keeper’s head, signaling his intentions early. Despite a close catching chance when he was on 6, Buttler’s aggressive approach paid off as he tore into the RCB bowling attack, particularly targeting the inexperienced spin duo of Mayank Dagar and Himanshu Sharma, who proved costly for Bangalore.
Buttler’s dominance was on full display as he attacked both pace and spin with equal aplomb, his innings studded with seven boundaries and five sixes, including the match-winning shot that brought up his hundred. His rapid scoring in the powerplay, alongside Samson’s fluent strokeplay, significantly eased the pressure in the middle overs, setting up a platform for a comfortable chase.
While RCB’s spinners struggled, leaking runs at crucial junctures, Rajasthan’s spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravi Ashwin bowled tightly, conceding just 62 runs in their combined 8 overs, stifling the RCB batters with variety and control. This strategic bowling at critical moments kept the required rate within reach, allowing Buttler and Samson to play without undue pressure.
The match ended with Rajasthan Royals maintaining their perfect start to the season, while RCB pondered what could have been, despite Kohli’s brilliance. Buttler’s whirlwind century not only embellished his milestone match but also underscored his status as one of the premier batsmen in the IPL’s storied history.
This victory, built on the back of strategic acumen and Buttler’s explosive batting, sends a strong message to the Royals’ competitors, highlighting their balanced team and resilient approach. As they gear up for the next challenge, the Royals would be buoyed by their form, team spirit, and the return of Jos Buttler’s majestic touch.
Chief Scores:
RCB 183 for 3 in 20 overs (Virat Kohli 113 not out, Faf Du Plessis 44, Yuzvendra Chahal 2 for 34)
Rajasthan Royals 189 for 4 in 19.1 overs (Jos Buttler 100 not out, Sanju Samson 69, Reece Topley 2 for 27)
Player of the Match – Jos Buttler
