Virat Kohli fights hard to hold back tears, Anushka Sharma overcome with emotions as RCB defy all odds to reach IPL playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their remarkable run by securing the fourth and final playoff spot with a crucial 27-run win over defending champions Chennai Super Kings in their final must-win IPL 2024 championship match on Saturday. RCB's sixth consecutive win saw them post an imposing 218/5 after being put into bat before restricting CSK to 191 for seven. The win marked RCB's ninth appearance in the playoffs in 15 seasons.

Despite a spirited fightback from Ravindra Jadeja, who remained unbeaten on 42, and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who contributed 25, RCB managed to keep their composure. Rachin Ravindra's previous 61 had given CSK a glimmer of hope, but Yash Dayal's final over – where he conceded just 7 runs – ensured the hosts' triumph. While Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad had already secured their place in the playoffs, RCB's victory at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium completed the top 4; the last two league matches of the season on Sunday (SRH vs PBKS and KKR vs RR) will confirm the teams participating in the first playoff and the Eliminator.

Virat Kohli was one of the featured artists of RCB throughout the season and was impressive with the bat in the win against CSK, Also; he gave the Royal Challengers a flying start with 47 points to his name. On the field, Kohli's presence was also crucial; he took on Daryl Mitchell brilliantly and remained energetic throughout the CSK run chase. As Dayal ensured RCB's victory and their path to the playoffs, Kohli couldn't suppress his emotions and his wife Anushka Sharma also had tears in his eyes.

The heartwarming moment was captured on camera and can be seen in the winning montage released by the IPL:

Watch:

This victory sums up the brilliant comeback of RCB, who had won only one match in the first half of the season. The Royal Challengers extended their winning streak to six matches with victory over CSK, who face a stark contrast after winning the title last year. Adding to their concerns are speculations about MS Dhoni's future; Even though CSK's beloved 'Thala' has been brilliant with his batting appearances, he braved a knee injury to feature in all 14 matches for the team.

Playoff Roster

While KKR, who have already consolidated their top spot in the table, will play the first playoff match and have a chance to secure a direct path to the final, RCB will play in the playoff match. Both teams await their opponents with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals still in contention for the second spot in the table. The third-placed team will face the Royal Challengers in the Eliminator.