Virat Kohli's batting masterclass dents CSK

Two arch-rivals squared off against each other on a Saturday night - Can it get any bigger? What made it even more special was the fact that Captain Kohli was back to his imperial best, stringing a match-winning performance against the southern counterparts, Chennai Super Kings. While the format has seen intrepid stroke play becoming an integral component of scoring runs, there are other textbook shots that few players bring to the fore to attack the bowlers. We have all seen the skipper map out a run-chase with ease. He gave an extension of his unparalleled capabilities with the willow. But this time, setting the target. 

On a track that seemed two-paced, Virat Kohli went about his innings with a prudent approach. He brought the fitness dimension to his game, converting singles to doubles, imposing pressure on the opposition fielders. Realising the need to step on the gas, he launched an assault on the CSK bowlers in the closing overs, piling 46 runs in the last 17 balls. Kohli's onslaught set exacting standards and high tempo for his teammates to follow in the second half, which was very much evident in the bowlers' approach. 

The skipper remarked that the 37-run win over the Chennai Super Kings was one of the most clinical performances. He also commended the efforts of the RCB debutant, Chris Morris, who was brilliant with the ball upfront and in the death overs as well. "It was one of our most complete performances. Morris has been really good, gun on the field and three wickets on debut. With him and Gurkeerat, the batting also gets deep. When you get momentum in this format, it can be the difference between finishing at the top or at the bottom,” Virat Kohli was quoted as saying at the post-match presentation ceremony.