RCB VS DC: Challengers reach 158-6 in 17 overs, three overs remaining

BENGALURU: Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a competitive 158-6 in 17 overs against Delhi Capitals, with three overs still left to play in the 26th match of the ongoing Indian Premier League at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.

After being put in to bat, RCB got off to a steady start, led by an aggressive knock from Phil Salt, who scored 63 off 38 balls, smashing four fours and three sixes. However, the Capitals struck back in the middle overs to slow down the scoring rate.

Virat Kohli contributed 19 runs, while Devdutt Padikkal added 18, but both fell at crucial moments as DC bowlers kept picking up wickets. Skipper Rajat Patidar chipped in with a quick 8, and Tim David played a useful cameo of 26 runs to keep the innings on track.

Late wickets dented RCB’s momentum, with Romario Shepherd and others failing to accelerate. Jitesh Sharma and Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten as the side looked to push towards a 170-plus total.

For Delhi, Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer with the ball, claiming two wickets, while Mukesh Kumar and Axar Patel also contributed with timely breakthroughs.

With a current run rate above nine, RCB appear on course for a strong finish, though DC will aim to restrict them in the final overs.