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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar hailed Josh Hazlewood’s early breakthroughs as the "game changer" in their 50-run victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk on Friday. RCB registered their first win at CSK’s home ground since the inaugural IPL season in 2008.
“If I talk about this match, it was a good total on this surface because the ball was stopping a bit and it wasn’t easy for batters to hit fours and sixes,” Patidar said.
After Patidar’s crucial half-century helped RCB post 196/7 in 20 overs, Hazlewood dismissed Rahul Tripathi and Ruturaj Gaikwad in his first over, derailing CSK's chase. The home side never recovered, slipping to 75/5 as Yash Dayal and Liam Livingstone inflicted further damage.
CSK’s Struggle and Worst-Ever Home Defeat
Despite late efforts from Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, CSK could only muster 146/8, suffering their worst-ever defeat at MA Chidambaram Stadium.
"It was game-changing because we got two-three wickets in the first six overs. Amazing to see how they kept it on the hard length because the ball wasn’t coming on to the bat easily," Patidar remarked.
Spinners Shine, Livingstone Praised
Patidar also credited his spinners, particularly Livingstone, for their disciplined bowling. "This track was helpful for spinners, so I wanted to use them early. Livingstone bowled four incredible overs," he said.
Patidar’s Knock and RCB’s Historic Start
Patidar acknowledged the importance of his innings, stating that RCB aimed for a 200-run target to make it difficult for CSK. "My goal was to stay as long as possible and maximize every ball," he added.
With this win, RCB have now won their first two matches of an IPL season for the first time in history.
What’s Next?
CSK will head to Guwahati to face Rajasthan Royals on Sunday, while RCB will prepare to host Gujarat Titans at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 2.
