RCB secured their first points in IPL 2024 with a victory over Punjab Kings in their inaugural home game of the season, triumphing by four wickets. Virat Kohli, returning to form after a two-month hiatus, earned the player of the match accolade for his outstanding innings of 77 runs off 49 deliveries. Kohli’s excellence extended beyond his batting prowess, as he engaged in lively banter with both Punjab Kings players and his fellow India teammate, Shikhar Dhawan.
During the seventh over of the second innings, bowled by Harpreet Brar, Kohli exchanged words with Dhawan after taking a single off the first ball. Kohli responded with a smile, quipping, ‘Senti Kyu Ho Rha Hai’ (Why are you getting sentimental?) This exchange occurred amidst rumors suggesting Kohli might be overlooked for the T20 World Cup 2024, but his performance against PBKS silenced critics emphatically.
VIRAT KOHLI “Senti kyu horra kya hogya” to harpreet brar 🤣#RCBvsPBKS #ViratKohli @bholination @mufaddal_vohra pic.twitter.com/l8rU6c8ftA
— Subhash Choudhary (@SubhashGodara09) March 26, 2024
In the post-match presentation, Kohli addressed his detractors with confidence, asserting that despite his current association with promoting T20 cricket globally, he still possesses the skill and drive to excel on the field. “I know my name is now synonymous with promoting T20 cricket worldwide, but I still have something to offer,” Kohli asserted.
Punjab Kings posted a total of 176/6 in the first innings after being put in to bat, with Shikhar Dhawan top-scoring with 45 runs, supported by a dynamic finish from Shashank Singh. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell stood out as the leading wicket-takers for RCB, each claiming two wickets.
