Punjab Kings Pull Off Historic Win, Defend IPL’s Lowest Total Against KKR
In a jaw-dropping turnaround, Punjab Kings (PBKS) etched their name into IPL history books by defending the lowest-ever total in a completed 20-over match, securing a 16-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Mullanpur on Tuesday. After being bowled out for just 111 runs in 15.3 overs, few expected PBKS to put up a fight—but Yuzvendra Chahal had other plans.
KKR seemed to be cruising during their chase, reaching 62 for 2 in the seventh over. With experienced campaigners at the crease and only 50 more needed, the match appeared firmly in KKR’s grip. However, Chahal's four-wicket spell (4 for 28) ripped through the middle and lower order, triggering a dramatic collapse. KKR were eventually bundled out for 95 in 15.1 overs, falling 16 runs short in what will be remembered as one of the IPL’s most unexpected results.
Marco Jansen also played a pivotal role for PBKS, picking up 3 for 17 and applying pressure from the other end. The incredible comeback not only stunned the opposition but also breathed new life into PBKS's campaign. Chahal’s performance earned widespread praise, as he spun a web that KKR simply couldn’t escape.
Earlier in the day, PBKS were put in to bat after losing the toss. They got off to a brisk start with an opening stand of 39 runs in just 3.1 overs between Prabhsimran Singh (30) and Priyansh Arya (22). However, Harshit Rana turned the tide with a double strike in one over, finishing with 3 for 25. The rest of the lineup crumbled under sustained pressure from KKR’s spinners, Varun Chakaravarthy (2 for 21) and Sunil Narine (2 for 14), as the hosts folded for a paltry 111.
While the total seemed easy on paper, cricket once again proved its unpredictability. PBKS’s spirited bowling, sharp fielding, and tactical brilliance stunned KKR, giving fans a thrilling low-scoring contest.
This match will be remembered not only for Chahal’s brilliance but also for the incredible belief shown by Punjab Kings in the face of near-certain defeat. It stands as a testament to the old cricketing adage: it's never over until it's over.
