Royal Challengers Bangalore ended their six-match losing streak in the IPL by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by 35 runs. RCB batted first and scored a hefty 206 for seven, with Rajat Patidar leading the charge with a quickfire 50 off just 20 balls. Captain Virat Kohli also contributed with a measured 51 off 43 balls.

Sunrisers Hyderabad, known for their strong batting, couldn’t chase down the target and managed only 171 for eight in their 20 overs. RCB’s spinners played a crucial role, with Swapnil Singh making an impactful debut by taking two wickets in his first over.

Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar continue their half century 

RCB’s decision to open the bowling with part-time off-spinner Will Jacks paid off, as he dismissed Travis Head early in the innings. Abhishek Sharma entertained briefly with a quickfire 31, but SRH kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

Patidar’s aggressive batting was in stark contrast to Kohli’s more conservative approach, but it proved effective as he smashed four consecutive sixes in the 11th over. Despite Patidar’s quick fifty, Kohli continued to anchor the innings, reaching his half-century in 37 balls.

RCB make a comeback 

RCB’s innings had a few hiccups, with Faf du Plessis and Jacks departing early, but Patidar and Kohli steadied the ship with a solid partnership. Cameron Green and Dinesh Karthik chipped in with crucial runs towards the end, helping RCB set a challenging target of 207 for SRH.

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In the end, SRH fell short despite some resistance from their lower order, giving RCB a much-needed victory in the tournament.