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In a jaw-dropping encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Punjab Kings (PBKS) etched their name in history books by pulling off an extraordinary chase against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Eden Gardens on Saturday. Despite a rocky start to the season, Jonny Bairstow emerged as the hero with a scintillating 108 off just 48 balls, propelling PBKS to a mammoth total of 262 runs, the highest-ever successful chase in IPL history. PBKS achieved this staggering target with 8 wickets in hand and an astonishing 8 balls to spare, sending shockwaves through the cricketing world.
Controversey at the Eden Gardens
While the match unfolded with breathtaking moments, it was not short of drama. Even amidst KKR’s anguish, their mentor Gautam Gambhir mostly maintained composure, until a controversial moment shook his calm demeanor. In the 14th over, PBKS spinner Rahul Chahar delivered a teasing short ball outside off, luring Andre Russell into a cut through cover. However, Ashutosh Sharma‘s remarkable dive halted Russell’s shot, followed by a swift return to the keeper’s end. Despite Russell capitalizing on an overthrow for an additional run, the on-field umpires, much to KKR’s dismay, deemed the over concluded, denying them the extra run.
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Gautam Gambhir’s fierce exchange
This contentious decision ignited a heated exchange, with Gambhir, joined by KKR skipper Shreyas Iyer, engaging in a fierce argument with the fourth umpire. Gambhir’s frustration was palpable as he passionately contested the decision, reminiscent of a similar incident in KKR’s previous clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which also saw him embroiled in a dispute over an umpiring call.
Here’s the video:
— Nihari Korma (@NihariVsKorma) April 27, 2024
Jonny Bairstow’s brilliance
Nevertheless, despite the controversy, PBKS emerged triumphant on the back of a sensational batting spectacle. Bairstow’s unbeaten century stole the spotlight, supported by Prabhsimran Singh‘s explosive innings at the top. Later contributions from Rilee Rossouw and Shashank Singh, particularly his prowess in hitting sixes, bolstered PBKS’s charge, registering their first victory of the season after five hard-fought games.
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