Will Kohli’s big knock come against Punjab tonight?

Virat Kohli. Pic/PTI

Royal Challengers Bangalore, who have found much-needed momentum towards the business end of IPL-15, will back themselves to ride past an inconsistent Punjab Kings and get closer to a play-off spot on Friday.

Having put up complete performances in their last two games, RCB seem to have figured out their best combination. Barring Virat Kohli, all other batters are in top form with uncapped Rajat Patidar and Mahipal Lomror complementing seasoned pros like skipper Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik. The latter being among the best finishers in the tournament. Kohli, meanwhile, may be in the middle of his worst IPL season, but he is due for an impact knock and that could come against Punjab.

The bowling packs a punch too thanks to in-form pacers Josh Hazlewood and the reliable Harshal Patel. Mohammad Siraj has not been at his best, but trust him to deliver when the team needs it the most. Maxwell has been handy with his off-spin, while Wanindu Hasaranga is among the leading wicket-takers in the tournament with 21 scalps including a five-wicket haul. A win here will take RCB to 16 points.

Meanwhile, Punjab, who have three games left, need to win all for a top-four finish. They started their campaign with a win over RCB and are on 10 points with five wins. The fact that they have not been able to win two games in a row sums up their inconsistency.

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