Virat Kohli extremely pleased with his team's performance against Punjab Kings

Royal Challengers Bangalore qualified for the playoffs for the second time in a row after a 6-run victory over Punjab Kings on Sunday.

The RCB skipper Virat Kohli expressed his happiness at the prospect of leading his team to the next stage of the tournament. He stated that the team was pleased to have qualified for the playoffs with two games remaining, and that the team now hopes to finish in the top two in the standings.

"After 2011, we haven't done it with games to spare. Eight wins out of 12 games is a great campaign. We have two more opportunities to finish in the top two. Should give us the motivation to play even more fearlessly," Kohli mentioned during the post match presentation.

On speaking about the opening pair, he said, "When you don't have any wickets on the scoreboard, you can take more risks. Which myself and Dev (Padikkal) have to. 15-20 runs on this ground can be crucial. We have to plug those areas. As a side, we have had an endeavour to improve, whether in losses or wins." the captain indicated the areas to improve upon in the upcoming fixtures.

On a sluggish wicket, the much-needed impetus was provided by Glenn Maxwell. The Aussie all-rounder bought his A-game, using the long handle to good effect against the spinners. In the process, he notched up his third consecutive half-century of the second leg of the tournament. His 33-ball stay at the crease really set the tone for the team to post a total of over 160. 

The bowling cartel - Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shahbaz Ahmed, George Garton and Harshal Patel - have never let their guard down in crunch situations. The amount of character and skill they have demonstrated is commendable. They once again turned the heat on against Punjab on Sunday. Deservingly, the bowling pack received heavy praises from the skipper himself. 

"The resurgence of (Mohammed) Siraj, ever since he has done well in Test cricket. Harshal's (Patel) inclusion has been outstanding. Yuzi has chipped in, as has Shahbaz (Nadeem). Garton has come in. If the players don't step up, then the campaign goes off track", Virat added.

With two more matches still in hand, the Royal Challengers will aim to finish the campaign on a high note by finishing in the top two position.