In the thrilling IPL 2024 opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 22, Ajinkya Rahane and Rachin Ravindra showcased a moment of pure brilliance, setting an early standard for the season’s best relay catch. The electrifying play unfolded as Virat Kohli, RCB’s former captain, faced Mustafizur Rahman’s bouncer, attempting a powerful pull shot in the 12th over.
As Kohli mistimed his shot, the ball soared into the air, prompting Ajinkya Rahane to sprint backwards toward the boundary rope. Showing remarkable athleticism, Rahane leapt and managed to get his hands on the ball, but realizing his momentum was carrying him perilously close to the boundary, he made a swift decision. With lightning reflexes, Rahane threw the ball back just in time to Rachin Ravindra, stationed strategically along the boundary line.
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The stunning relay catch left Kohli stunned, but the third umpire confirmed its legitimacy, compelling the RCB skipper to depart the field. This catch not only delighted the crowd but also marked a crucial breakthrough for CSK, breaking a pivotal partnership.
Brilliant relay catch 👌
Timber strike 🎯Mustafizur Rahman is making merry & so are @ChennaiIPL 🙌
Head to @JioCinema and @StarSportsIndia to watch the match LIVE
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/4j6FaLF15Y #TATAIPL | #CSKvRCB | @ChennaiIPL | @ajinkyarahane88 pic.twitter.com/0GKADcZleM
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 22, 2024
CSK’s fielding prowess didn’t stop there. Rachin Ravindra, making his IPL debut, set the tone earlier with a diving catch to dismiss RCB captain Faf du Plessis, curbing his aggressive start. This catch, off Mustafizur Rahman’s delivery, not only showcased Ravindra’s agility but also signalled the beginning of Rahman’s impactful debut for CSK.
Behind the stumps, former CSK captain MS Dhoni displayed his timeless skill, snatching two catches in the powerplay. Dhoni’s acrobatics saw the swift dismissal of Rajat Patidar and Glenn Maxwell, bolstering CSK’s dominance on the field.
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The match, which saw RCB slump from 41 for 0 to 78 for 5, highlighted CSK’s formidable presence in the field, led by the legendary MS Dhoni and supported by the exceptional efforts of players like Rahane and Ravindra. As CSK set the tone with their stellar fielding, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling moments in the IPL 2024 season.
