[Watch] Glenn Maxwell strikes first ball as Ruturaj Gaikwad goes for a golden duck in CSK vs RCB IPL 2024 match

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had a perfect start as Glenn Maxwell struck on the first ball of the innings during the chase on Saturday, May 18. They've been tasked with defending 218 against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad fell prey and had to walk back for a golden duck.

The Aussie all-rounder, who took the new ball, sent down a half-tracker, but the grip from the pitch made Gaikwad hit it straight to short fine. Yash Dayal barely had to move an inch to take the catch as the home side were sent into a delirium.

With 218 set for the defending champions for victory, they must score over 200 to seal their spot in the playoffs. Faf du Plessis and his men will have their playoff spot booked in case vice-versa happens. Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, and SunRisers Hyderabad have already made it to the playoffs.

Glenn Maxwell also played an invaluable cameo with the bat

Maxwell, who has found himself under scrutiny for his woeful form with the bat in IPL 2024, batted decently on Saturday. The veteran all-rounder hit 16 off only five deliveries before Shardul Thakur found the edge of his bat to be caught by MS Dhoni.

After the Super Kings won the toss and sent the home side into bat, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis stitched a 78-run opening stand. The former became the first batter to perish for 47. Du Plessis was unfortunate to be dismissed at the non-striker's end for 54. Rajat Patidar hammered a 23-ball 41, while Cameron Green stayed unbeaten at 38 off 17 deliveries, laced with 3 fours and as many sixes.

The Royal Challengers had won only one out of seven matches, but have stormed back into contention with five consecutive victories. Hence, a spot in the playoffs after being in dire straits would be a special achievement for them.