BENGALURU : The emergence of Rasikh Dar and the return of Josh Hazlewood have added depth to Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s bowling attack, helping the defending champions climb to the top of the Indian Premier League standings with a win over Lucknow Super Giants on Wednesday.
Bengaluru secured a five-wicket victory to move level on eight points with Rajasthan Royals, edging ahead on net run rate.
While Virat Kohli has led the way with the bat and tops the run charts this season with 228 runs, it is the team’s improved bowling depth that has underpinned their early success.
Dar, who featured only twice during last year’s title-winning campaign, made a significant impact against Lucknow, claiming 4-24 on a dry surface. He combined effectively with Hazlewood, who delivered a tight spell of 1-20 to restrict the opposition.
The pace duo was supported by Krunal Pandya, who maintained control through the middle overs.
“He has worked a lot on yorkers and slower ones. He knew the IPL was around the corner and how one has to be perfect to play with a certain intensity,” said Jitesh Sharma.
Bengaluru will next host Delhi Capitals on Saturday as they look to maintain their momentum.
