The IPL 2024 opener between RCB and CSK was convincingly won by the latter side. The visitors had set a 174-run target for the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team, which they chased down comfortably in 18.4 overs. The foundation of CSK’s innings was laid by the young Rachin Ravindra, who was making his debut. The Kiwi batter signaled his intent from the very first ball he faced, as he kicked off his IPL career with a boundary.
Rachin batted with an aggressive approach and went on to score 37 runs in just 15 balls. His innings included 3 fours and 3 sixes. The 24-year-old batter’s knock was brought to a halt by Karn Sharma. In the last ball of the 7th over, Rachin swept the delivery in the hope of hitting a six but was caught by the deep square fielder Rajat Patidar. However, what grabbed everyone’s attention was Virat Kohli’s reaction to the wicket.
The former RCB captain, Virat Kohli, was caught on camera apparently yelling, “F**k off,” at Rachin Ravindra, the CSK debutant. Kohli also gestured with his hand, signaling for Rachin Ravindra to leave the field. Meanwhile, netizens are expressing their displeasure with the actions of the Indian cricketing legend towards the young Rachin Ravindra.
— Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (@Hanji_CricDekho) March 22, 2024
Chennai Super Kings didn’t face much trouble after Rachin’s wicket. Contributions from Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, and Ravindra Jadeja with their cameo innings helped CSK reach the target successfully. With this, RCB remained winless at Chepauk for the last 16 years. Virat Kohli’s side has only managed to secure one victory at CSK’s den, which came in the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008.
RCB’s bowling department let them down in the opening game. However, the performances of players like Cameron Green, who took two wickets, and Dinesh Karthik, who finished the game alongside Anuj Rawat, are some positives that they can take into the next game. The Faf du Plessis-led side will now face Punjab Kings at Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 15th.
