Historic IPL Upset: Punjab Kings Defend 111, Lowest Ever Total, Against KKR
In a stunning display of tactical bowling and unwavering determination, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) etched their names in the IPL history books by defending a meager 111 against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens. This victory, orchestrated by a sensational bowling performance from Yuzvendra Chahal and astute captaincy from Shreyas Iyer, marks the lowest ever total successfully defended in the tournament’s history.
Head Coach Ricky Ponting, visibly elated after the nail-biting finish, hailed it as “just about the best win I’ve ever had” in his IPL coaching career. The dramatic turnaround, coming just days after PBKS failed to defend 245, underscores the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. Ponting highlighted the irony, stating, “It just goes to show how funny a game it is. From failing to defend 245 to winning with 111—it’s incredible.”
The Eden Gardens pitch, exhibiting variable bounce and grip, proved to be a bowler’s paradise. PBKS exploited these conditions to perfection, with Chahal leading the charge. Overcoming a shoulder niggle, Chahal delivered a match-winning spell, claiming four crucial wickets and dismantling the KKR batting lineup. Ponting revealed the bowler’s determination, recounting how Chahal passed a fitness test on the day of the match and assured his coach of his readiness to perform.
The tactical decision to hand the new ball to Marco Jansen and Xavier Bartlett, ahead of Arshdeep Singh, based on match-up strategies also paid dividends. Their disciplined spells created pressure, complementing Chahal’s game-changing performance. Despite acknowledging his team’s poor batting performance and questionable shot selection, Ponting lauded their exceptional effort in the field and with the ball. “Even if we had lost that game, I would’ve been proud,” he stated, emphasizing the team’s renewed energy and belief in their bowling and fielding.
Captain Shreyas Iyer, despite being dismissed for a duck, played a crucial role in orchestrating the victory. He credited his instincts for backing Chahal and emphasized the importance of having the right players in the right positions. Reflecting on the challenging pitch conditions, Iyer noted the variable bounce, making it difficult for batsmen and fielders alike. While admitting that 111 was a low total, he considered it “decent” given the conditions and expressed pride in his team’s execution of their bowling plans.
This historic win propels Punjab Kings to fourth on the points table and sends a strong message to their competitors. Their grit, tactical adaptability, and unwavering fighting spirit have set the stage for an exciting remainder of the tournament.
Official Score Summary:
Punjab Kings: 111 all out
Kolkata Knight Riders: 95 all out
Result: PBKS won by 16 runs (lowest total ever defended in IPL history)
