IPL 2020: KXIP vs RR Review – Royals end Punjab’s dream run to stay alive
Rajasthan Royals have defeated the Kings XI Punjab in Match 50 of the ongoing Indian Premier League to stay alive in the race for the playoffs. The all-round Ben Stokes put up a commanding display in all three departments – batting, bowling and fielding to save the day for the Royals.
Earlier, it was a Chris Gayle show in Abu Dhabi after Punjab were put in to bat by the Royals. Coming in to bat in the second over itself, the Universe Boss only got out in the final over entertaining the viewers with his six-hitting spree. Gayle though was unfortunate not to get his 100. But his 63-ball 99-run knock was the best and he smacked six fours and 8 sixes during his stay in the middle.
KL Rahul also batted well for his 46 as KXIP posted 185 runs on the board in 20 overs. However, the score wasn’t enough for them at all with the Royals gunning it down without much fuss.
The Royals had a crackling start to their chase thanks to Stokes’ 24-ball 50. Sanju Samson then took charge after Stokes’ departure to slam a quick-fire 48. Though his run-out sent some jitters in the Royals’ camp, the overseas stars of the team, Steve Smith and Jos Buttler made sure they didn’t botch up the chase. The duo finished the game in 18th over itself to also improve their NRR at the crucial stage of the tournament.
Turning Point
Ben Stokes 50 – A must-win game and the pressure of a 186-run chase. Try telling that to Ben Stokes. The man looked rusty in the first few games. But he has turned things around at just the right time for RR in two back to back big run-chases. Against Punjab, he was at his best from the word go making sure that the Royals churned out maximum runs in the Powerplay. In the 60-run opening stand, Stokes made 50 off just 26 balls with six fours and three sixes. His knock proved crucial in the run-chase as RR easily got home.
Top performers
Records/Personal Milestones
- Chris Gayle completed 1000 sixes in T20 cricket
- Nicholas Pooran completed 200 sixes in T20 cricket
- Glenn Maxwell completed 1500 runs in the IPL
Way ahead
KXIP will play their final encounter against CSK in Abu Dhabi on Sunday afternoon while the Royals will face-off against KKR with a playoff place at stake.
