The floodlights illuminated the packed stadium, casting dramatic shadows over the pitch as Royal Challengers Bangalore stepped out to chase 183 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders. The energy in the air was palpable—this wasn't just another ILP encounter. This was a battle of discipline versus aggression, a test of whether RCB's tactical approach could overpower KKR's high-pressure game plan.
Raj stood near the boundary rope, tightening his gloves, his expression unreadable yet intensely focused. This chase would test every principle of smart cricketing strategy—understanding conditions, manipulating gaps, rotating strike, and most importantly, knowing exactly when to push and when to hold back.
The players took their positions.
At the crease were Virat Kohlie and Faf Duplesi, two of RCB's most experienced openers. Their partnership was built on complementary strengths—Kohlie's ability to time shots against pace, and Duplesi's precise targeting of gaps against spin.
