The Rajasthan Royals (RR) advanced to Qualifier 2 after defeating the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 4 wickets in the Eliminator match at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, May 22.

RCB, invited to bat first by RR captain Sanju Samson who won the toss, managed to score 172/8. Contributions came from Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Mahipal Lomror, who each scored in the thirties. Avesh Khan (3/44) and R Ashwin (2/19) were the standout bowlers for RR.

In response, RR successfully chased the target, reaching 173/6 in 19 overs. Key performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal (45), Riyan Parag (36), and Shimron Hetmyer (26) were instrumental in the victory. RR will now play Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Qualifier 2 on Friday in Chennai, with the winner advancing to the final on Sunday at the same venue.

After the match, RCB’s wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik was seen emotionally bidding farewell to the fans, with his teammates applauding him as they headed back to the pavilion. RR coach Kumar Sangakkara also shared a warm moment with him, giving him a hug.