Dubai: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Rajasthan Royals (RR) by seven wickets in the 33rd match of IPL 2020 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Batting maestro AB de Villiers played a gem of an innings to help Virat Kohli-led RCB to chase the target, scoring 179 for three in 19.4 overs.
After winning the toss, RR decided to bat. RR made a surprising move by getting veteran Robin Uthappa to open with star all-rounder Ben Stokes. Steve Smith top-scored with a 57 off 37 balls, while Robin Uthappa smashed a 41 off 22 balls at the top as RR posted 177 for six in 20 overs. Chris Morris (4/26) was the peak of the bowlers, capturing four wickets, while Yuzvendra Chahal (2/34) claimed two for RCB.
For RCB, while Virat Kohli scored 43 off 32 balls, Devadutt Padikkal scored 35 off 37 balls, Aaron Finch scored 14 runs. But it was AB Villiers, who played a terrific 55 (not out) off 22 balls. Hitting the winning runs in style, De Villiers smoked a massive six in Jofra Archer’s final over to help RCB cross the finish line with two balls to spare.
RCB now have 6 wins in 9 matches while RR have lost six matches in the ongoing season.