IPL 2022, PBKS VS RCB: Odean Smith powers Punjab to 5 wicket win in high-score thriller

Odean Smith's powerful knock of an unbeaten 25 off 8 balls turned the game on its head as Punjab Kings registered their first win of the season after defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore in a high-scoring thriller on Sunday evening.

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Despite an impressive start, Punjab struggled in the later overs after Royal Challengers Bangalore(RCB) bowlers began their hunt. While the opening pair of Shikhar Dhawan and Mayank Agarwal collected 71 runs in 7 overs, Bhanuka Rajapaksa added a blistering 43 off 22 later. However, the team's chase was hurt badly after Mohammed Siraj ousted Rajapaksa and Raj Bawa back to back in the 13th over. Punjab lost Liam Livingstone (19 off 10) in the following over. Thereafter, Odean Smith and Shahrukh khan (24 off 20) took charge as they helped Punjab chase down their highest target in IPL against RCB.

Earlier, Punjab won the toss and decided to bowl first. The RCB skipper led from the front as he smashed a brilliant 88 off 57, supporting him was Virat Kohli who added another 41 off 29. But despite posting a commanding 205, RCB began their 2022 campaign with a bitter 5 wicket loss.

While RCB next face KKR on 30th March, Punjab will face the same team on 1st of April in their 2nd clash of the season.