New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) Sanjay Bangar, the former head coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), remarked that Virat Kohli's strategic pacing during his composed innings of 70 was pivotal in helping the team post a total that was marginally above-par, ultimately leading to an 11-run victory against Rajasthan Royals.

At the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli achieved his fifth half-century of the season, partnering with Devdutt Padikkal to form a solid 95-run partnership, with Padikkal also contributing a half-century, allowing RCB to reach 205/5. In response, RCB secured their first home win of IPL 2025, driven by Josh Hazlewood’s impressive bowling performance of 4-33 and an effective display from the spinners.

“This was the classic Virat Kohli. After facing a couple of low scores, he reverted to his usual approach—playing risk-free cricket and building the innings steadily. Once the game was in control, he unleashed his attacking shots,” Bangar stated.

“The significant factor was how he navigated the initial 7-8 overs, providing not only confidence to his partner but also to the entire dugout. The way he paced the innings allowed RCB to set a total that was slightly above-par,” Bangar commented on JioStar.

Bangar, who previously served as India’s batting coach, pointed out critical tactical missteps and hasty shot selections that caused RR to falter in their run-chase for the third consecutive match. “Rajasthan's situation is dire, and they have only themselves to hold accountable for this defeat. They missed crucial moments—both while batting and bowling.”

“Not utilizing Jofra Archer for back-to-back overs, especially during the 18th, led to additional runs. In their chase, Jaiswal managed 14 runs off Hazlewood but still chose to attack him, while Riyan Parag, despite a fortunate start, continued to swing wildly and squandered a winning opportunity. These mistakes have cost them dearly in the last three matches. Losing critical moments is severely impacting Rajasthan,” he elaborated.

Bangar concluded by sharing his views on the forthcoming clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday evening.

“I foresee a victory for CSK against SRH. The strength of CSK’s spin attack, under the guidance of MSD, will be crucial, and they’ll ensure conditions favor the spinners. The team is evolving, shifting focus towards younger players. Conversely, SRH has been quite inconsistent,” he added.