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The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad witnessed a night of fireworks on April 28th, 2024, as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) demolished Gujarat Titans (GT) by a massive nine-wicket margin. While the emphatic victory itself deserves headlines, it was the blistering knock from English all-rounder Will Jacks that truly stole the show. Jacks, playing for RCB, transformed from a steady contributor to a record-breaking force in the blink of an eye.
GT Set Up Competitive Total:
Gujarat Titans, electing to bat first, posted a challenging total of 200/3 on the board. Openers Sai Sudharsan (84* off 56 balls) and David Miller (26* off 14 balls) provided the backbone of the GT innings, with the latter providing a late flourish. Despite some disciplined bowling from the RCB attack, featuring economical spells from Glenn Maxwell (1-20) and Mohammed Siraj (1-32), GT managed to put up a score that demanded a strong batting display from the opposition.
Jacks Joins Kohli in Mid-Chase Onslaught:
Chasing a daunting target of 201, RCB openers Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli started with cautious intent. The experienced duo ensured they didn’t lose early wickets, building a platform for the batsmen to come. After a 54-run opening partnership, du Plessis departed for 28, bringing in the in-form Will Jacks.
Jacks Unleashes Mayhem:
Up until this point, Jacks had contributed with a handy 17 runs off 17 balls with his bowling. However, his arrival at the crease marked a monumental shift in the momentum of the match. Jacks switched gears with breathtaking ease, dismantling the GT bowling attack with a whirlwind display of power hitting. He launched into the bowlers from the get-go, dispatching boundaries at will and rotating the strike effectively.
From Fifty to Hundred in 10 Balls: A Record-Breaking Feat:
What transpired next can only be described as phenomenal. Having reached his fifty from 31 deliveries, Jacks proceeded to score his next 50 runs in a mere 10 balls – a feat rarely witnessed in the high-pressure environment of the IPL. This incredible surge of boundaries took him to a century in a staggering 41 deliveries, equaling the record for the joint-fastest IPL hundred ever, previously held by KL Rahul.
Kohli Anchors, RCB Clinch Record Chase:
While Jacks stole the limelight with his pyrotechnics, it’s important to acknowledge the crucial role played by Virat Kohli at the other end. The former RCB captain displayed his experience, anchoring the chase with a composed 70* off 47 balls. The duo of Jacks and Kohli put on a match-winning partnership of 146 runs in just 68 balls, effectively taking the game away from GT.
RCB Seal Dominant Victory:
With Jacks and Kohli at the helm, RCB chased down the target with four overs to spare, registering a comprehensive nine-wicket victory. This chase becomes even more significant as it’s the fastest-ever pursuit of a 200-plus target in the IPL. This dominant win not only propels RCB to their second consecutive victory but also injects a surge of confidence into the team as they look forward to their next encounter.
Looking Ahead: A Rematch on the Horizon:
While RCB can celebrate a record-breaking victory, GT will be looking to regroup and analyze their bowling attack’s shortcomings. Notably, the two teams are slated to face each other again in a few days’ time. With both teams desperate to solidify their position in the points table, the upcoming match promises to be another enthralling contest. Cricket fans can expect more fireworks as RCB aim to build on their winning momentum, while GT strives to bounce back from this heavy defeat.
