Punjab Kings (PBKS) made the impossible look possible as they pulled off a World Record chase of 262 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on April 26. Played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, PBKS secured a dominant 8-wicket victory over KKR.
KKR batted first after losing the toss and set a massive target of 261 runs. However, PBKS displayed remarkable batting prowess, chasing down the total without breaking a sweat, to say the least, it looked like one. They achieved this feat with eight wickets four balls to spare, showcasing their clear dominance in the match.
It was a much-needed win for Punjab as it came after a string of four consecutive losses. Stand-in captain Sam Curran expressed his joy at this historic win and the fighting spirit displayed by his team to break their losing streak and secure valuable points in the IPL season.
Sam Curran delighted after PBKS' stunning win
“It is very pleasing. Most importantly the win. Cricket is turning into baseball,” Curran said at the post-match presentation.
Despite losing close matches of late, PBKS made a stunning comeback and delivered a strong performance against KKR. Comming on PBKS's closely-contested matches, Curran said:
“We have had a few tough weeks. But we hung in there. The way the guys train, the confidence the coaches provide, the small grounds and the dew, the reviews that might give you an extra ball, all play a part. We hung in there and managed to chase it down with balls to spare.”
Sam Curran all praise for match-hero Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow was the star of the show for Punjab Kings. His unbeaten knock of 108 runs from just 48 balls, including 8 fours and a staggering 9 sixes, laid the foundation for their chase of the massive target. Bairstow wasn't alone in the mission as Shashank Singh provided crucial support, also remaining unbeaten with a blistering 68 runs off just 28 deliveries. This came after a flying start from opener Prabhsimran Singh, who smashed a quickfire 54 runs off just 20 balls.
Punjab Kings stand-in captain Sam Curran was delighted with Bairstow's return to form. He acknowledged that Bairstow had been struggling recently, but his knock against KKR showed he'd found his touch again. Curran also praised the impact of Shashank Singh on the team's success.
“Pleased for Johnny. What an amazing knock. Shashank Singh has been the find of the tournament for us. Ashutosh as well. Proud of everyone,” he concluded.
PBKS will next face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on May 1 while KKR will take on Delhi Capitals on April 29.
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