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West Indies legend Brian Lara has made a bold prediction for the upcoming do-or-die IPL 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). This final league game of the season is crucial for both teams as they battle for a spot in the playoffs. RCB, currently sixth in the standings with 12 points from 13 matches, needs a win to stay in contention. Meanwhile, CSK is third with 14 points and needs either a win or a narrow loss to advance.

Lara's confident prediction

Speaking on Star Sports, Lara expressed strong support for RCB, citing their current form and key players. "RCB is on a five-match winning streak, which no other team has achieved this year," Lara said. He emphasized the importance of Virat Kohli's hot form and the contributions from other players. "Kohli has been exceptional this season, with 661 runs in 13 matches. But it's not just about him; players like Du Plessis and Siraj are also performing well, and the younger players are stepping up too," Lara added.

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Lara believes that RCB's hunger to win, having never won the IPL, will drive them forward. "This is a great opportunity for them. The team's form is good, there's a strong desire to win, and senior players are leading by example. I've seen them play live, and I am confident they will beat CSK," he concluded.

Kohli's stellar season

Virat Kohli has been RCB's standout performer this season, scoring 661 runs at a strike rate of 155.16, including a century and five half-centuries. He is leading the Orange Cap race and will be crucial in the upcoming match against CSK. Kohli aims to play a match-winning role to help his team secure a playoff spot.

CSK, with 14 points, needs to avoid a heavy loss to ensure their playoff spot. Even if they lose by a margin of less than 18 runs while chasing 200, their net run rate (NRR) will remain higher than RCB's, allowing them to qualify. The clash between these two powerhouses is set to be a thrilling encounter, with everything on the line for both teams.

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