In a game filled with twists and turns, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) edged past Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 27 runs to secure a dramatic playoff spot in the IPL 2024 season. The final over saw a roller-coaster of emotions before RCB emerged victorious.

MS Dhoni’s monster six creates dilemma

Needing 35 runs to win and stay alive in the tournament, CSK began the final over with a glimmer of hope. MS Dhoniknown for his last-over heroics, stepped up to the crease. The first ball from young pacer Yash Dayal turned into a full toss due to a wet ball, and Dhoni capitalized by launching it over the roof of the M Chinnaswamy Stadium for a mammoth 110-meter six.

Target changes with new ball into play

Dhoni’s six, however, had an unintended consequence. With the original ball lost on the roof, a new, dry ball was brought into play. This seemingly minor change proved pivotal.

The dry ball offered Dayal more control over his deliveries.

Dhoni departs, CSK’s dream fades

Dayal’s next delivery, a slower ball, deceived Dhoni, who miscued a shot caught by Swapnil Singh at deep backward square leg. This crucial wicket shifted the momentum back to RCB. Despite a valiant effort from other batters, CSK were restricted to 191/7, falling short of their revised target of 201 which would have kept them ahead in net run rate and secured them a playoff spot.

Also READ: IPL 2024 – Fans brutally troll Shivam Dube after his flop show with the bat in RCB vs CSK clash

Dramatic finish secures RCB’s playoff berth

This dramatic sequence of events sealed RCB’s fate. While Dhoni’s six initially ignited hope for CSK, it ultimately led to their downfall by bringing a new ball into play. RCB capitalized on their newfound advantage, securing a thrilling victory and booking their place in the coveted IPL playoffs.

After reaching the RCB dressing room, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Keeper jokingly said: “The best thing to happened today was Dhoni hitting the six outside the ground. We got a new ball which was much better to bowl with.”

The change in ball fortune was evident with Virat Kohli’s reaction, confirming its significance.

Also READ: IPL 2024 – AB de Villiers elated as RCB clinch dramatic playoff berth with win over CSK