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| Photo: BCCI & IPL |
Deccan Chargers Innings: Deccan Chargers batted first and posted a modest total of 143 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Herschelle Gibbs top-scored with an unbeaten 53, while Anil Kumble was the standout bowler for Bangalore, taking 4 for 16. Kumble's early dismissal of Adam Gilchrist and his crucial strikes throughout the innings kept Deccan's scoring in check. However, Gibbs' gritty innings, despite its lack of fireworks towards the end, provided a stable platform for Deccan.
Royal Challengers Bangalore Innings: Chasing 144, Bangalore struggled against Deccan's disciplined and aggressive bowling attack. Pragyan Ojha and Andrew Symonds were particularly effective, with Ojha taking 3 for 28 and Symonds chipping in with 2 for 18. Despite a valiant effort from Ross Taylor, who scored a quick 27, Bangalore fell short, managing 137 for 9 in their 20 overs.
Key Moments:
Symonds' Crucial Over: The turning point of the match came in the 15th over of Bangalore's innings, bowled by Andrew Symonds. He dismissed Ross Taylor and Virat Kohli off consecutive deliveries, shifting the momentum decisively in Deccan's favor. Taylor had been looking dangerous, and his dismissal, followed by Kohli's, left Bangalore reeling at 99 for 6.
Aggressive Bowling and Fielding: Deccan Chargers came out with high energy, reflected in their aggressive bowling and fielding. Ryan Harris and RP Singh bowled with pace and hostility, while Symonds' sledging added to the pressure on Bangalore's batsmen. This aggressive approach paid off as they constantly took wickets, preventing any significant partnerships from forming.
Van der Merwe's Brisk Innings: Roelof van der Merwe's quickfire 32 off 21 balls gave Bangalore a glimmer of hope. His aggressive batting, including two sixes off Harris, injected momentum into the chase. However, his dismissal, stumped off Ojha, was a significant blow to Bangalore's chances.
Tense Final Overs: The match went down to the wire, with Bangalore needing 27 runs from the last two overs. Despite Robin Uthappa hitting a six, RP Singh and Ryan Harris kept their nerve, with Harris delivering a crucial final over to seal a six-run victory for Deccan Chargers.
Conclusion: The IPL final between Deccan Chargers and Royal Challengers Bangalore at the DY Patil Stadium was a thrilling contest that showcased intense competition and dramatic turning points. Deccan Chargers, who had finished last in the previous season, completed a remarkable turnaround by winning the title. Their aggressive bowling, sharp fielding, and crucial moments of brilliance, particularly from Andrew Symonds and Herschelle Gibbs, were key to their victory. The match was a testament to Deccan's resilience and ability to hold their nerve under pressure, culminating in a well-deserved championship win.
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