IPL 2023: Play of the day from SRH vs RCB clash

In the 65th Indian Premier League 2023 (IPL 2023) match, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are locking horns in the former’s backyard, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The clash is being seen as crucial for the Faf du Plessis-led side as a win in the game could keep their playoff hopes alive. While for SRH, a victory won’t make much difference but Aiden Markram and his men would look to put their best foot forward to bring joy to the faces of their supporters.

Winning the toss, du Plessis put Sunrisers to bat first. Like in the previous game, this time too, SRH struggled to start well in the game, losing both of their openers Abhishek Sharma and Rahul Tripathi well within the powerplay. However, Heinrich Klaasen, who has served Hyderabad efficiently with his bat, took the matter into his hands and delivered a blockbuster batting show.

Displaying his spunky side with the bat, the Protea smashed his maiden IPL ton and helped his team post a colossal total of 186/5 on the board. Before concluding his 104-run knock, Klaasen took Karn Sharma to the cleaners along with Harry Brook. On the fourth delivery of the 15th over, the wicketkeeper batter succeeded in clearing the fence with his exquisite shot against the leggie towards the off-side.    

Klaasen finally fell prey to Harshal Patel in the penultimate over, but not before he had inflicted enough damage on the visiting side. Klaasen's innings of 104 included eight fours and six maximums. His 51-ball innings was brought up at an astonishing strike rate of 203.92.

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Did You Watch ? A maximum to bring up the 💯 Heinrich Klaasen scored a brilliant 104 off 51 deliveries. Live - bit.ly/TATAIPL-2023-65 #TATAIPL #SRHvRCB #IPL2023 twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

09:04 PM · May 18, 2023

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RCB must win against SRH to keep their playoff hopes alive

Challengers can’t afford to lose this contest as a defeat might draw curtains on their chances of advancing to the next round. Riding on Klaasen’s rapid 104 off 51, SRH accumulated 186/5 in their 20 overs.

Now, RCB batters must step up to deliver an unprecedented show to pocket the game. Earlier, RCB bowlers started well as Michael Bracewell sent both SRH openers early. However, RCB failed to continue the momentum as Klaasen became too hot to handle with his bat. Coming in to bat at a crucial juncture, of the game, the right-handed dashing Protea held his nerves and helped his team to be in a commanding position.  

However, RCB got back at SRH with a roar, getting off to a flying start in the innings. Openers Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis fired on all cylinders to put up a dazzling show in the powerplay. RCB finished their first six overs on a score of 64/0.