IPL : Bangalre RC v Hyd DC 3rd May 08

Thanks to my friend Rahil, I got a chance to watch one of the Bangalore's home game live. The atmosphere was electrifying from the start. We painted our faces with RC and Indian tri-colors. We were 14 of us, and each had worn white T-Shirts with each sporting a printed letter in the word ROYAL CHALLENGE. I held the letter 'L' . Our main intent, even before we came for the match was to ensure we appear on TV. We tried our best with slogans and other gestures, the cameramen refused to pan our wards, or so we thought.



Well, for the match, it started with Laxman captain of Hyd winning the toss and electing to field first. We all cursed him for doing so, as we could have been treated with some Gilly magic, had Hyd batted first. Bangalore started of decently, but nothing was exciting about their innings. Most the shots played were akin to test or one day matches. It was only towards the end that, Dravid and others fired to reach a total of 156.



With the depth and talent in the Deccan's lineup, the target seemed fairly gettable. We were all excited to atleast watch some fireworks from Gilly or Gibsy. The first two overs were very crucial and tight. And thats when, I realised, hey Bangalore can win this! Later they bowled some tight spells with Dale Styne leading the attack. Man he has was so fast on the pitch, from the stands it appeared as though he was firing bullets. Laxman and Rohit put up a good fight with a 50 each of them. The string of tight overs and wickets continued with Zaheer and Kallis. Kumble did prove little expensive though.



The last 4-5 overs were the most exciting. When Afridi came in, everyone felt he could finish it in just one over. We were witness to a spectacular diving catch by Dale Styne to send Afridi back home. This inspired everyone on and off the field, that Bangalore can win this battle afterall.

The drama went down to the last over. And our own Jumbo was given the ball. The scores reading 6 balls and 20 runs need, the first two ball went for a single each. It was the next two balls that sent shivers down Rahul's and everyone in the stadium's spine. Sanjay Bangar hit 2 consecutive sixes. Now the score read 2 balls and 6 runs needed.  If Sanjay connected this well and the ball went for a six ,  it was all over for the challengers. Blood had already run out of Dravid's face. The 5th ball was yorker length, and alas it went for just a single. And now it was 1 ball 5 runs, a 6 meant DC win, a 4 meant we could have a bowl out draw. Nobody in the stands wanted this to happen. And it happened, only a single was taken of the last ball.

By now me and my friends lost our voices due to excessive screaming and shouting..

What a match, what a victory, the best and the only full length IPL match i witnessed for this tournament!!! And was it worth it??

Banglaore Royal Challengers Vs Hyderabad Deccan Chargers

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