Batting first, CSK lost Ruturaj Gaikwad early but were quick to recover courtesy of high-class batting display from Devon Conway and Ajinkya Rahane. The duo put up 74 runs for the second wicket with Conway smashing 83 off just 45 deliveries including 6 fours and as many sixes. Similarly Rahane scored 37 off just 20 deliveries with the help of three fours and two sixes.
After a solid start, Shivam Dube took charge and led the charge for CSK, smashing two fours and an impressive five sixes on his way to a quickfire 52 off just 27 deliveries. Moeen Ali then provided the finishing touches with a rapid 19 off nine balls as CSK posted an imposing total of 226/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
In reply, RCB got off to a disastrous start, losing both Virat Kohli and Mahipal Lomror early. However, skipper Faf du Plessis and power-striker Glenn Maxwell then joined hands and destroyed CSK’s bowling attack.
They forged an impressive 126-run partnership in a mere 61 deliveries with Maxwell smashing eight sixes and three fours on his way to an excellent 76 off just 36 balls, while du Plessis hitting five fours and four sixes to score a brilliant 62 off just 33 deliveries. But it wasn’t enough as after the duo’s dismissals, RCB lost the momentum and were restricted to 218/8, falling 8 runs short of the target.
While RCB was in the process of chasing the target, a picture of Du Plessis went viral. The image showed him in some discomfort while batting, prompting him to lift his T-shirt. Fans noticed that he had a strap around his abs and a tattoo, which became a topic of discussion on social media.
Played such an iconic knock at 38 even when he wasn't fully fit. Appreciation tweet for Captain FAF.
You just can't scroll down without liking this! #RCBvsCSK pic.twitter.com/JztllvBuYA
— Sexy Cricket Shots (@sexycricketshot) April 17, 2023
Although Du Plessis has several tattoos, this particular one is written in Arabic reading “Fazl” which translates to “grace” or “blessing”. According to reports, Du Plessis believes that his life has undergone significant positive changes through the grace of God, which is why he decided to have this tattoo.
After the game, Du Plessis also revealed the reason behind the strapping at his abdomen area. The former South Africa skipper said he had some problem in ribs and therefore he wore the strap.
“I believe that I strained my muscles while fielding, and as the innings progressed during batting, I began to experience discomfort. I did not want to remove my shirt, but eventually, I had to do so” said Du Plessis at the post-match presentation.
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