IPL 2020: Ben Stokes, Sanju Samson shines as Rajasthan Royals thrash Kings XI Punjab by 7-wickets

Rajasthan Royals powered home in a chase of 186 against Kings XI Punjab in Match 50 of IPL 2020 on Friday to remain in contention for play-offs. The former champions rode on Ben Stokes's 26-ball 50 and Sanju Samson's 25-ball 48 as the duo fired for them for the second successive game at the Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Rajasthan Royals' win also meant Kings XI Punjab's stunning comeback run of 5 successive wins came to an end. With 2 crucial points, Rajasthan have lifted themselves from the 7th spot of the IPL 2020 points table to the 5th spot, pushing Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad a spot



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Ben Stokes continued from where he left a couple of nights ago as the England all-rounder went after the King's XI bowling attack from the word go. Days after the stunning hundred, Stokes hit 3 sixes and 6 boundaries as he helped the Royals make the best use of the powerplay. Robin Uthappa managed to give Stokes good company as the senior batsman hit 30 from 23 balls.

Despite losing Ben Stokes for 50, the Royals never let the asking rate climb up, thanks to some terrific clean-hitting from Sanju Samson. The India wicketkeeper smashed 3 sixes and 4 boundaries in a knock that demoralised the KXIP spinners in the middle overs.