Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL
In a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter on May 3 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) edged out Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by a narrow margin of 2 runs. Lungi Ngidi, who made his debut tonight, replacing Josh Hazelwood, had a night to remember as he emerged as the unsung hero for RCB as he picked up two crucial wickets in the dying moments of the match and helped break down CSK’s momentum to ensure victory for his team.
Talking about the match, RCB posted a formidable total of 213/5 in their 20 overs in the first innings. Virat Kohli led the charge with a scintillating 62 off 33 balls, including five fours and five sixes. Jacob Bethell provided solid support with a 55-run knock off 33 deliveries. However, it was Romario Shepherd's explosive unbeaten 53 off just 14 balls that propelled RCB to their imposing total. Shepherd's innings featured four boundaries and six towering sixes, marking one of the fastest fifties in IPL history.
In response, CSK mounted a valiant chase, finishing at 211/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Ayush Mhatre was the standout performer, scoring a breathtaking 94 before being dismissed by Lungi Ngidi in the 17th over. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 77, anchoring the innings till the end. Despite their efforts, CSK fell just short of the target, resulting in a narrow defeat.
Lungi Ngidi finished his spell with figures of 3-30, aiding RCB come off a slender 2-run victory
Lungi Ngidi had a debut to remember as he had a massive influence on RCB’s win against CSK. After dropping an easy catch during the 16th over, Ngidi came into the bowling attack in the 17th over and redeemed himself. He first dismissed the set batter Ayush Mhatre, denting CSK’s chasing momentum and then cleaned up in-form Dewald Brevis for a golden duck on the very next ball.
Although he did prove to be a little costly in the earlier overs, he executed that 17th over to almost sheer perfection, claiming two important wickets and giving away just 8 runs. During the powerplay, he also got the better of Sam Currant and dismissed him for a mere 5 runs. He finished his spell with numbers of 3-30 (4), bowling at an economy of 7.50.
