In a high-octane clash during the IPL 2024, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) scripted history with an awe-inspiring run chase against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The match, held at the iconic Eden Gardens, witnessed fireworks, record-breaking hits, and an unforgettable display of power-hitting.
The clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 26, 2024, was a record-breaking spectacle in the IPL. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the match and the records created:
Highlighting the record-breaking chase:
KKR’s Innings:
- KKR posted a formidable total of 261/6 on the board, thanks to a brilliant opening partnership between Sunil Narine (71) and Phil Salt (75).
- Brief cameos from Andre Russell and Shreyas Iyer kept the scoreboard ticking after a mid-overs slump.
- Despite late wickets, KKR managed to put up a challenging target.
PBKS’s Chase:
- The chase was spearheaded by a destructive opening partnership between Prabhsimran Singh (53) and Jonny Bairstow (108*).
- Bairstow’s unbeaten knock of 108 runs came in just 48 balls, and it was instrumental in Punjab’s victory.
- Shashank Singh (68 off 28 balls) provided crucial support in the middle order.
- PBKS chased down the target with 8 wickets and 8 balls to spare.
Records Created and Broken
- Highest Successful Chase in T20 Cricket: This match witnessed the highest successful chase in T20 history. PBKS chased down a target of 262 runs, surpassing the previous record.
- Highest IPL Total by Punjab Kings: PBKS’s score of 262 surpassed their highest IPL total of 232 runs, which they scored against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2011.
- First Time Openers from Both Teams Scored 50+: This match marked the first instance in IPL history where openers from both sides scored over 50 runs (Sunil Narine & Phil Salt for KKR, Prabhsimran Singh & Jonny Bairstow for PBKS).
Key Performances
- Jonny Bairstow (PBKS): The English dynamo unleashed fury, smashing an unbeaten 108 runs off just 48 balls, including a mind-boggling 10 sixes.
- Shashank Singh (PBKS): The local hero played a stellar supporting role, contributing a blistering 68 not out off 28 balls, with 8 sixes.
- Sunil Narine (KKR): The mystery spinner bowled brilliantly, conceding a mere 24 runs in his 4 overs.
- The unbeaten partnership of 138 runs in 10.2 overs between Bairstow and Shashank Singh set the stage for PBKS’ historic chase.
This match was a true nail-biter, showcasing some exceptional batting performances. Punjab Kings’ record-breaking chase will definitely be remembered as a historic moment in the IPL.
Final Words
The Punjab Kings’ audacious run chase will be etched in IPL folklore. It was a night when boundaries flowed like a monsoon river, and records tumbled. Cricket enthusiasts will remember this clash as one of the most exhilarating encounters in the history of the Indian Premier League.