IPL 2023: RCB vs GT | Virat Kohli’s Second Consecutive Century Takes Bengaluru to 197 for 5 against Gujarat
In the IPL 2023 match between the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and the Gujarat Titans (GT), Virat Kohli proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest cricketers in the world. Kohli scored a second consecutive century, taking Bengaluru to a formidable score of 197 for 5 against Gujarat.
The match, which was held in Bengaluru, was a thrilling encounter between two of the most exciting teams in the tournament. RCB were the favourites going into the match, with their star-studded line-up featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Glenn Maxwell. Gujarat, on the other hand, were looking to upset the odds and claim a crucial victory.
Bengaluru won the toss and elected to bat first, with Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal opening the batting. The two batsmen got off to a steady start, with Kohli looking in sublime touch from the outset. Padikkal, who has been in excellent form throughout the tournament, also played some delightful shots.
Gujarat, however, struck the first blow, dismissing Padikkal for a well-played 36. This brought AB de Villiers to the crease, and the South African wasted no time in getting into the groove. De Villiers played some jaw-dropping shots, including one remarkable six that sailed over the roof of the stadium.
Kohli, too, continued to score freely, hitting the Gujarat bowlers to all parts of the ground. He reached his century in the 17th over, becoming the first player in the tournament to score back-to-back centuries. It was a masterful innings that showcased Kohli’s immense talent and determination.
With Kohli and de Villiers at the crease, Bengaluru looked set to post a mammoth total. However, Gujarat fought back, picking up wickets at regular intervals. De Villiers was dismissed for a brilliant 45, while Kohli eventually fell for a magnificent 138.
Despite losing some quick wickets towards the end of their innings, Bengaluru managed to post a challenging score of 197 for 5. Gujarat, who have some big hitters in their side, knew they had their work cut out for them.
In their reply, Gujarat got off to a terrible start, losing wickets in quick succession. None of their top order batsmen were able to get going, with RCB’s bowlers bowling with great discipline and control. Harshal Patel was once again the pick of the bowlers, picking up three wickets and never letting the Gujarat batsmen settle.
Despite some late hitting from their lower order, Gujarat eventually fell short of the target, finishing on 168 for 9. It was a comprehensive victory for RCB, who continue to look like one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
The win was built on the back of Kohli’s incredible century, which once again demonstrated his immense class and quality. His performance will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest innings in IPL history, and will be remembered for years to come.