Former India skipper Virat Kohli played a stellar knock of 92 off 47 balls against Punjab Kings on Thursday, keeping Royal Challengers Bangalore in the playoff hunt of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Kohli’s heroics led RCB to a massive 241-7 in 20 overs, a total that proved too daunting for PBKS, who were bowled out for 181 in 17 overs. Opening the innings for RCB, Kohli fell just eight runs short of a record century in the IPL. His innings was studded with seven fours and six sixes, showcasing his vintage form. Kohli’s explosive knock propelled RCB to a dominant position, and they ultimately emerged victorious by 60 runs. With this defeat, PBKS were eliminated from the playoff race. For his match-winning performance, Kohli was rightly adjudged the Player of the Match. Kohli’s performance was all the more impressive considering that he has been in sensational form throughout the IPL 2024 season. Averaging 70.44 with a strike rate of 153.51 after 12 games, Kohli has been the most consistent batter in the tournament. He has already notched up five half-centuries, including his latest 92 against PBKS. Kohli’s exploits have helped him extend his lead over the Orange Cap contenders. He is the first batter to cross the 600-run mark this season, amassing 634 runs in 12 games. His nearest rival, Chennai Super Kings skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, has 541 runs in 11 games, while Sunrisers Hyderabad opener Travis Head is third with 533 runs in 11 games. Reflecting on his performance, Kohli emphasized the importance of quality over quantity. He stated that his understanding of the game allows him to practice less and focus on replicating his past successes. However, he also acknowledged the need to continuously improve and evolve as a batter.
Virat Kohli’s IPL 2024 Performance Highlights:
* Matches: 12
* Runs: 634
* Average: 70.44
* Strike Rate: 153.51
* Half-centuries: 5
Orange Cap Contenders:
1. Virat Kohli (RCB): 634 runs in 12 games
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK): 541 runs in 11 games
3. Travis Head (SRH): 533 runs in 11 games
4. Sanju Samson (RR): 471 runs in 11 games
5. Sunil Narine (KKR): 461 runs in 11 games
6. KL Rahul (LSG): 460 runs in 12 games
