Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis showered praise on the team's middle-order after they clinched the final playoff spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a dramatic comeback.
Chasing their maiden IPL title, Bengaluru's recent surge culminated in a decisive 27-run victory against defending champions Chennai Super Kings in a crucial playoff decider. Du Plessis (54) and the league's leading scorer Virat Kohli (47) set a solid foundation, leading to a commanding 218-5 with significant contributions from middle-order batters Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, and Glenn Maxwell.
"It felt like a day-five test match," du Plessis remarked about the challenging conditions post-rain. Chennai's response fell short at 191-7, ensuring Bengaluru's place in the playoffs alongside Kolkata, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Reflecting on their season turnaround, du Plessis noted the improved intent and intensity from multiple batters in their last six games, highlighting a successful strategic shift.