Low-Scoring Thriller Goes Punjab's Way
In a shocking IPL match on Tuesday, Punjab Kings achieved a heart-stopping 16-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders even as they set a low score of 111 runs. Kolkata faltered while chasing the target, getting bowled out for a mere 95 runs.
Punjab's innings closed for 111 off 15.3 overs, with Kolkata's Harshit Rana bagging 3 wickets, while Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine took 2 each. Several thought that a Kolkata win would be easy — but Punjab had other plans.
Yuzvendra Chahal shocked Kolkata's batting order, claiming 4 wickets for 28 runs, his best IPL performance. Punjab Kings also created a new IPL record by winning after scoring the lowest total.
Shreyas Iyer's Tactical Input
Shreyas Iyer was instrumental in leading the team during the defense. He quickly understood the pitch behavior and provided clear directions to his bowlers, especially Chahal.
"I could see the ball was beginning to turn a bit. I asked Chahal to keep calm, keep his breathing steady, and bowl accurately. We instructed the team to go hard with their style," Iyer explained after the match.
Right Score for the Right Pitch
Iyer felt that their score was tough enough with the conditions in the pitch. "Every ball was different to play. Some did not bounce, some came off the edge. It was not easy to play sweep shots as well," he said.
He was confident following initial breakthroughs, and his attacking field placements put pressure on the opposition. "We had a plan. When we picked two early wickets, we smelled an opportunity. Chahal's bowling gave us the confidence and we pulled the fielders in. That pressure made them commit errors," Iyer said.
He clarified that the team wouldn't become overconfident. "This victory adds just to our responsibility. We'll take this momentum ahead."
Points Table Update
- Punjab Kings have now played six games and reached 4th position with 8 points.
- Kolkata Knight Riders remain at 6th position with 6 points.
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