IPL 2024 Orange Cap: Riyan Parag back at 2nd spot, Sanju Samson gains ground after RR vs GT's showdown

The latest performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) clash between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have shaken up the race for the Orange Cap, awarded to the season's leading run-scorer. Rajasthan Royals' young talent Riyan Parag and captain Sanju Samson both cashed in with half-centuries against the Gujarat Titans. This propelled Riyan further up the leaderboard, solidifying his position within the top five in the list of leading scorer. Sanju, who was previously in seventh, managed a more significant jump, climbing all the way to fourth place.

The Gujarat Titans also saw a shift in their batting ranks. Skipper Shubman Gill's half-century against the Royals launched him from fifth to third in the race. However, this rise came at the expense of teammate Sai Sudharsan, who dropped from second all the way down to fifth.

Despite these changes, Royal Challengers Bangalore's batting star Virat Kohli remains firmly in control.  His century against the Royals earlier in the season continues to hold him at the top of the leaderboard. Interestingly, the current top five for the Orange Cap are all Indian batsmen. South Africa's wicket-keeper Heinrich Klaasen previously held a spot in this group, but recent matches have seen him fall out of contention.

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Check the complete list of batters who are in the Orange Cap contention: 

Here's a breakdown of the top five contenders:

1. 1. Virat Kohli (RCB): The king remains on top! Kohli boasts a massive lead with 316 runs in just five matches, including two half-centuries and a stunning century. His aggressive batting, with a strike rate of 146.29, makes him a clear frontrunner.

2. Riyan Parag (RR): Hot on Kohli's heels is Rajasthan Royals' rising star, Riyan Parag. With 261 runs in five matches, he's proving his consistency with a third half-century under his belt. His impressive strike rate of 158.18 is a testament to his attacking style.

3. Shubman Gill (GT): After a slow start, Gujarat Titans' captain Shubman Gill has found his rhythm. Two match-winning fifties, including a blistering 72 off 44 against RR, have propelled him to the third spot with 255 runs in six matches. His strike rate of 151.78 showcases his ability to score quickly.

4. Sanju Samson (RR): Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson has finally joined the chase! His unbeaten 68 off 38 against GT not only secured a win but also earned him a spot in the top five. With three half-centuries and a strike rate of 157.69 in five matches, he's a force to be reckoned with.

5. Sai Sudharsan (GT): While Sai Sudharsan hasn't reached the half-century mark yet, his consistent scoring for GT keeps him in contention. He's currently at the fifth spot with 226 runs in six matches, though his strike rate of 127.68 suggests a more measured approach compared to the other contenders.

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Who won Orange Cap in IPL 2023?

During the 2023 IPL season, the current Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill delivered an exceptional performance by scoring an impressive 890 runs, earning him the Orange Cap as the tournament's top run-getter. Close on his heels was Royal Challengers Bangalore's Faf du Plessis, who showcased his prowess with 730 runs, claiming the second spot in the Orange Cap competition. Devon Conway of Chennai Super Kings also had a noteworthy season, accumulating 672 runs to secure third place. Royal Challengers Bangalore's Virat Kohli continued to prove his mettle as a formidable batsman by finishing in fourth place with 639 runs. Completing the top five was the emerging talent Yashasvi Jaiswal, who made a significant impact by gathering 625 runs and establishing himself as a noteworthy player in the IPL.

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