The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) boast one of the most passionate fanbases in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Demonstrating their unwavering support, hundreds of fans participated in a bike roadshow ahead of RCB’s crucial match against the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, May 18.
Despite a rocky start to the season with seven losses out of their first eight matches, RCB turned their fortunes around dramatically with five consecutive victories. They triumphed over Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans (twice), Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals. Now, a significant win against CSK could secure their spot in the playoffs, clinching the fourth available position.
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On Saturday morning, the streets around the Chinnaswamy Stadium were filled with RCB fans on two-wheelers, eagerly cheering for their team in what could be their last home game of the IPL 2024 season. The fervor of the fans was palpable, as they hoped for a decisive victory.
Early Morning Bike Road Show From #RCB Fans Outside The Stadium…💥
Whatever Happens Today…Give Your Best @RCBTweets @imVkohli ✌🏻#RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/lCB3afugjP
— Sachin Roberrt😎 (@SachinRoberrt7) May 18, 2024
For RCB to surpass CSK’s net run rate (NRR) and qualify, they need to win by at least 18 runs or chase the target within 18.1 overs. This match also offers RCB a chance to avenge their six-wicket loss to CSK in the season opener on March 22. Historically, CSK has dominated their head-to-head encounters, leading 21-10 out of 32 matches, with one game yielding no result.
Virat Kohli, RCB’s star player, expressed his excitement about facing MS Dhoni, amidst rumors that this might be Dhoni’s last season in the IPL. Kohli recently shared his thoughts with JioCinema, saying, “Mahi bhai and I will be playing again, maybe for the last time, who knows. It’ll be a great moment for fans. We had a great partnership for India over the years. We all know how many matches he’s finished and won for the team.”
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If CSK fails to make it to the playoffs, this could be Dhoni’s final game in Bengaluru. Conversely, if the Super Kings advance, Dhoni might conclude his illustrious IPL career on a high note in Chennai, which is set to host Qualifier 2 and the final. The anticipation and emotions surrounding this match make it one of the most awaited fixtures of the season.
