Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) faced a disappointing start during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) as Virat Kohli was dismissed for a golden duck by Trent Boult. Kohli was leading RCB due to the uncertainty of Faf du Plessis’ fitness and captained the team in their green jerseys for the special ‘Go Green’ match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
RR skipper Sanju Samson won the toss and chose to bowl first. The shocking dismissal occurred in the first over of the match when Boult, known for his trademark inswinger, pitched a fuller-length ball on middle. Kohli attempted a flick shot but missed, and the ball struck his pad in line with middle and leg. Umpire Michael Gough raised his finger without hesitation, and Kohli walked off the pitch, visibly disappointed.
The dismissal was reminiscent of Boult’s 2019 World Cup semi-final performance against India, where he similarly dismissed Kohli. In that match, Kohli also attempted the same shot, but the ball didn’t nip back.
This marked Kohli’s 10th duck in the IPL, with seven of them being golden ducks. He has now been dismissed for a duck as captain six times, tying for the fourth-most in IPL history. This was also the second consecutive time Kohli was dismissed for a golden duck while wearing RCB’s green jersey.
The match also saw Boult claim his 100th IPL wicket, with 46 of them coming during the powerplay and 21 in the first over.
Despite the unfortunate start for RCB, the team continues to display energy and determination, as demonstrated in their previous 24-run victory against Punjab Kings. RCB made one change to their lineup, with David Willey replacing Wayne Parnell. Faf du Plessis remains an impact player for the team. RR, on the other hand, maintained the same playing XI.
Both captains expressed their thoughts during the toss. Kohli stated that he was happy to bat first, given the dry wicket conditions, and was ready to continue leading the team as needed. Samson explained his decision to bowl first, citing the conditions and their preference based on their team’s strengths.