In Sunday’s Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 faceoff between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, a fierce altercation ensued, not just from RCB’s Virat Kohli but also from KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir towards the backend of the game.

Fierce altercation mars KKR vs RCB clash in IPL 2024

As the match reached a crucial stage, with RCB needing 31 runs off the last two overs and Dinesh Karthik at the crease, KKR captain Shreyas Iyer gestured towards the dugout after a discussion with the on-field umpire, hinting at an issue. Sensing an issue, Gambhir strode purposefully towards the boundary, engaging in a heated discussion with the fourth umpire, joined by head coach Chandrakant Pandit.

Gautam Gambhir’s heated exchange with umpire

Initially, commentators were puzzled by the exchange. However, as per a Hindustan Times report, it was revealed that KKR had requested the substitution of Sunil Narine with Rahmanullah Gurbaz for the final two overs. With Narine having completed his allotted four overs, KKR sought to bolster their fielding unit for the crucial closing overs, especially with RCB mounting a threatening chase. Despite KKR’s plea, the umpire swiftly dismissed their request, insisting that Narine return to the field while Gurbaz was sent off. This decision left Gambhir visibly incensed.

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RCB’s heartbreak: Falling short by one run in dramatic finish

Meanwhile, despite Karthik’s dismissal before the final over, RCB appeared poised to chase down the target, with Karn Sharma and Mohammed Siraj at the crease needing 21 runs off the last over. Sharma, though not known for his batting prowess, surprised with three consecutive sixes off Mitchell Starc, setting up a nail-biting finish. Nevertheless, Starc redeemed himself by taking a return catch to dismiss Sharma and a run-out sealed RCB’s fate, ending their innings at 222 all out in 20 overs.

RCB’s pursuit of KKR’s imposing total of 223 ended in heartbreak as they fell agonizingly short by just one run. Despite notable contributions from Karthik and Sharma, who showcased their batting prowess, RCB’s chase was ultimately thwarted. Will Jacks and Rajat Patidar also played vital roles by scoring half-centuries, but their efforts were in vain as victory eluded RCB’s grasp.

KKR’s bowling brilliance secures thrilling win

KKR’s bowling attack, led by Andre Russell with three crucial wickets, proved instrumental in defending their total. Narine and Harshit Rana also made significant contributions, claiming two wickets each to keep the pressure on RCB throughout the innings. Ultimately, KKR emerged triumphant, prompting jubilant scenes at Eden Gardens as Gambhir and his team celebrated a hard-fought win on their home turf.

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