Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL 2023 journey came to an end with a defeat against Gujarat Titans in their final league phase match. Despite Virat Kohli’s record-breaking seventh IPL century, RCB couldn’t secure a victory. Kohli’s 101 off 61 balls formed the foundation of RCB’s total of 197 runs. In pursuit of the target, Gujarat Titans successfully chased it down in 19.1 overs, with Shubman Gill playing a crucial role with an unbeaten 104 off 52 balls, including eight sixes and five fours. Kohli, on the other hand, hit 13 fours and one six. The number of sixes in the innings was identified as a significant difference between the two knocks by IPL-winning coach Tom Moody.
Speaking about Gill, Moody praised the young player, highlighting his special talent and composure at the crease. He emphasized Gill’s game across all formats and acknowledged his impressive performances for the IPL and the Indian national team. Moody attributed the difference in the two centuries to the number of sixes, with Gill hitting eight compared to Kohli’s solitary six. Gill’s strike rate of 200 in a challenging chasing situation against a strong bowling attack impressed Moody.
Gujarat Titans emerged victorious by six wickets, securing their place in the playoffs along with Chennai, Mumbai, and Lucknow. While Kohli expressed confidence in his T20 cricket and believed he was playing his best in the format, RCB’s performance in the IPL has been marred by consistent failures. Despite reaching the final three times, the franchise has never won the title in their 16 attempts since the tournament’s inception in 2008.
Kohli captained Bangalore for nine seasons but stepped down from the leadership position after the 2021 edition. During a challenging period, Kohli faced a slump in his batting form, leading to criticism. In 2020, he relinquished the Indian T20 captaincy following a disappointing World Cup campaign and was subsequently removed as ODI captain. He later stepped down as Test captain as well.
RCB’s IPL 2023 campaign ended in disappointment, while Gujarat Titans, along with three other teams, progressed to the playoffs of the prestigious T20 tournament.
