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The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) match in IPL 2025 was a roller coaster, not just for the cricket but for the drama that unfolded on the field, and the aftermath off it. RCB fans, known for their passionate support, found a new target for their affections, or rather, their mockery: LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi. The controversy stemmed from Rathi's attempt to 'Mankad' RCB's Jitesh Sharma, running him out at the non-striker's end for backing up too far. While the bails did light up before Jitesh's bat crossed the crease, it turned out that Lucknow captain Rishabh Pant withdrew the appeal. This decision, arguably a sporting gesture, diffused the immediate tension but didn't prevent the subsequent backlash. Adding another layer to the drama, it was revealed that Rathi had overstepped, rendering the attempted dismissal invalid anyway. The sequence of events was as follows: Rathi dismissed Jitesh on the first ball of the over, followed by his now infamous celebration. This dismissal was overturned due to the no-ball, resulting in a free hit that Jitesh promptly dispatched for a six. The episode sparked a wave of reactions, with RCB fans seizing the opportunity to mock Rathi by imitating his celebration outside the Ekana Cricket Stadium after the match. This highlighted the intense rivalry between the two teams and the fervent fan support that fuels the IPL atmosphere. The entire scenario encapsulates the intense scrutiny and high stakes involved in professional cricket, where every action, both on and off the field, is subject to immense public attention and debate. The incident also raises questions about the spirit of cricket and the balance between adhering to the laws of the game and maintaining a sense of fair play. While 'Mankading' is a legal form of dismissal, it remains a controversial tactic, often seen as unsporting. Pant's decision to withdraw the appeal, despite the technical legality of the dismissal, suggests a preference for upholding a certain standard of sportsmanship. In the end, the controversy only served to ignite Jitesh Sharma's determination, as he capitalized on the opportunity and unleashed a barrage of sixes, propelling RCB closer to a top-two finish. The series of events demonstrates the unpredictable nature of cricket and the ability of players to turn adversity into triumph.
Jitesh Sharma, riding the wave of the reprieve, went on to deliver a match-winning performance. He struck a hat-trick of sixes, showcasing his power-hitting prowess and playing a crucial role in securing RCB's victory. Jitesh and Mayank remained unbeaten, scoring 85 off 33 balls and 41 off 23 balls respectively, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to the team's success. Their partnership was instrumental in chasing down the target and securing a crucial win for RCB. The focus was on the record-breaking chase executed by RCB, which underscored their batting depth and ability to perform under pressure. Virat Kohli also contributed with a half-century, further bolstering RCB's batting lineup. The combination of experienced players like Kohli and emerging talents like Jitesh and Mayank showcases the balance and depth within the RCB squad. RCB's convincing six-wicket victory propelled them to second place in the points table with 19 points, behind Punjab Kings who topped the table due to a superior net run rate. This achievement secured RCB's place in Qualifier 1, bringing them one step closer to their dream of winning their first-ever IPL title. The team's performance throughout the season demonstrated their resilience and determination to compete at the highest level. The victory also signifies a significant turnaround for RCB, who had faced challenges earlier in the season. Their ability to overcome these obstacles and secure a top-two finish highlights their growth and development as a team. The win provides momentum and confidence as they enter the playoffs.
The stakes are now incredibly high for RCB as they head into the IPL playoffs. The winner of Qualifier 1 will directly advance to the title clash, scheduled to be held on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The losing team from Qualifier 1 will have another chance to reach the final, as they will face the winner of the eliminator match on June 1 at the same venue. RCB faces a quick turnaround, with just a single day to prepare for Qualifier 1 after their victory over LSG. This tight schedule presents a challenge for the team, requiring them to manage their resources effectively and maintain their focus. The pressure is immense, as RCB fans eagerly anticipate the opportunity to finally lift the IPL trophy. The team's performance in the playoffs will determine whether they can fulfill the long-held dream of their supporters. The entire RCB campaign hinges on their ability to perform at their best in these crucial matches. The journey to the final is fraught with challenges, but RCB has demonstrated the resilience and determination to overcome these obstacles. Their recent form suggests that they are peaking at the right time, providing them with the confidence to compete against the best teams in the league. The upcoming matches will be a test of their skill, strategy, and mental fortitude. The IPL playoffs are known for their unpredictable nature, and RCB will need to be prepared for any eventuality. The team's success depends on their ability to adapt to different situations and perform under pressure. The ultimate goal is to reach the final and win the IPL title, but RCB knows that they must take each game one step at a time. The competition is fierce, but RCB has the talent and determination to achieve their objectives.
Source: RCB Fans Mock LSG Star After Controversial Notebook Celebration Backfires. Watch