Press Trust of India
Bangalore, May 2: Talented Punjab batsman Mandeep Singh (45 n o, 18b, 4×4, 3×6) kept his cool under pressure as his breathtaking innings enabled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pip Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by seven wickets in a nerve-wracking encounter at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, here Saturday.
In a rain-hit tie reduced to 10-overs-per side, KKR scored 111 for four courtesy Andre Russell’s (45, 17b, 5×4, 3×6) blitzkrieg. He was particularly severe on Varun Aaron taking him for plenty of runs.
Chris Gayle (21, 9b, 3×6) and Virat Kohli (34, 20b, 2×4, 3×6) provided RCB the perfect start. But quick wickets of Gayle and AB de Villiers held them back.
However, Mandeep came to their rescue. With 9 required off last four balls, Mandeep first made room to slash Russell for a six over point and then pulled over deep fine leg to finish off the match in style. The win took RCB to nine points and fourth spot removing Delhi Daredevils. It also kept them in the hunt for play-offs.
Brief scores
KKR 111 for four (Andre Russell 45) lost to RCB 115 for three (Mandeep Singh 45 n o, Virat Kohli 34) by seven wickets.