NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into their first Indian Premier League final since 2016 with a commanding eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings in a one-sided Qualifier 1 on Thursday. Punjab’s ultra-aggressive batting strategy backfired, as they were bowled out for just 101 in 14.1 overs by a relentless RCB bowling attack.Despite having made it to the IPL final on three previous occasions (2009, 2011, and 2016), RCB are still chasing their maiden title. On this occasion, they took a giant step closer by chasing down the modest target in just 10 overs, led by a blazing unbeaten half-century from opener Phil Salt (56* off 27).With an all-round performance that ticked nearly every box, RCB cruised into the title clash scheduled for June 3 in Ahmedabad.Reflecting on the performance after securing the final berth, RCB captain Rajat Patidar said:“I think we were clear in our plans, how we have to bowl. I think the fast bowlers used the surface really well. The way Suyash chipped in, the way he bowled his lines and lengths, that was really good.”
“As a captain I am clear about his bowling. He has to target the stumps, that’s his strength. His wrong ‘un is difficult to read for the batters. I always want to give him clear ideas, I don’t want to confuse him.“I am okay if he concedes a few runs (in the process.) We have had a lot of practice sessions throughout the tournament, so one day of not practising won’t harm you.
“The way he (Salt) is batting in most of the matches. The way he is giving starts, I am a big fan of him. It’s a treat to watch him from the dugout. That’s really good. I always thank RCB fans, not only in Chinnaswamy, but wherever we go we feel it’s our home ground. We love you, so keep supporting us. One more game and let’s celebrate together,” the RCB skipper added.Punjab Kings, who made the playoffs for the first time in over a decade, will have another opportunity to reach the final when they take on the winner of Qualifier 2 between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in Ahmedabad on June 1.
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