Punjab Kings Create History with Record Chase Against Kolkata Knight Riders

Kolkata: In a thrilling encounter at the Eden Gardens, Punjab Kings scripted history by defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) with a record-breaking chase in their IPL 2024 fixture on Friday.

Chasing a mammoth target of 262 runs set by KKR, Punjab Kings showcased a sensational batting display, racing to victory with eight wickets in hand and 8 balls to spare. The hero of the match was Jonny Bairstow, whose unbeaten century paved the way for Punjab Kings’ historic triumph.

Bairstow’s spectacular knock of 108* runs off just 48 balls stole the show, guiding Punjab Kings to the monumental total. He was ably supported by Shashank Singh, who remained unbeaten with a brilliant half-century of 68* runs, and Prabhsimran Singh, who contributed with a crucial half-century of 54 runs. Rilee Rossouw chipped in with a quickfire 26 off 16 balls before falling to Sunil Narine.

Punjab Kings’ captain, Sam Curran, won the toss and elected to bowl first, setting the stage for an intense battle. KKR posted a formidable total of 261/6 in their allotted 20 overs, with Phil Salt and Sunil Narine leading the charge with impressive half-centuries. Salt scored a quickfire 75 off 37 balls, while Narine smashed 71 runs off just 32 balls. However, their efforts were not enough to stop Punjab Kings’ onslaught.