IPL 2024: Bairstow leads PBKS in record chase against KKR with 45-ball 100 on return

The match began with anticipation as Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow stepped onto the pitch for the chase of 262 runs against KKR. Facing Chameera’s deliveries, Bairstow wasted no time making his mark, smashing a boundary off the fourth ball, setting the tone for Punjab Kings.

Bairstow’s Dominance

Harshit Rana took up the ball next, but Bairstow proved a formidable opponent, sending the ball soaring over the long-on boundary for a massive SIX. Meanwhile, Rossouw joined the action, breaking his four-dot streak with a boundary of his own.

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As Harshit Rana continued his spell, Bairstow showcased his prowess with a mistimed shot that still cleared extra covers for a SIX, propelling him to a well-deserved FIFTY. Andre Russell entered the attack, but Bairstow, greeting him with a boundary, remained unfazed.

Bairstow’s Milestone

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Bairstow reached a century in just 45 balls, solidifying his reputation as a powerhouse batsman. Jonny Bairstow becomes the FIRST player to score an IPL century while chasing 250+ total.

Fastest IPL hundreds for PBKS (by balls faced)
38 – David Miller vs RCB, Mohali, 2013
45 – Mayank Agarwal vs RR, Sharjah, 2020
45 – Jonny Bairstow vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
49 – Wriddhiman Saha vs KKR, Bengaluru, 2014 final

That second 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ feeling 🫡

Appreciations from the dugout says it all 👏👏

Follow the Match ▶️ https://t.co/T9DxmbgIWu#TATAIPL | #KKRvPBKS | @PunjabKingsIPL pic.twitter.com/6yGynIZUut

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 26, 2024

Punjab Kings’ Created History

With KKR setting a formidable target of 261/6 at the Eden Gardens, PBKS have a golden opportunity to surpass the highest IPL chase and etch their name in the annals of T20 cricket history with the most successful chase ever.

Blistering Start by Punjab Kings

PBKS wasted no time launching a fierce assault on the opposition bowlers, courtesy of a breathtaking century by Jonny Bairstow in just 45 balls. Bairstow’s explosive innings set the tone for Punjab Kings’ chase, instilling hope and excitement among fans witnessing the unfolding drama at the Eden Gardens.

T20 Record for Highest Successful Chase

While IPL matches have witnessed thrilling chases over the years, the overall T20 record for the most successful chase currently rests with South Africa. However, with PBKS’s ambitious pursuit of KKR’s imposing total, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing history being made on the hallowed grounds of Eden Gardens.

High Scores in IPL 2024 Season

The ongoing season of the IPL has witnessed a surge in high-scoring matches, with teams consistently posting 250-plus scores. Sunrisers Hyderabad, in particular, have set new benchmarks by recording the two highest scores ever in IPL and T20 franchise cricket, adding to the excitement and intensity of the tournament.

Highest successful IPL run-chases

Team	Target	Score	Overs	Opposition	Date	Venue
Rajasthan Royals	224	226/6	19.3	Kings XI Punjab	Sep 27, 2020	Sharjah
Rajasthan Royals	224	224/8	20.0	Kolkata Knight Riders	April 16, 2024	Kolkata
Mumbai Indians	219	219/6	20.0	Chennai Super Kings	May 1, 2021	Delhi
Rajasthan Royals	215	217/7	19.5	Deccan Chargers	April 24, 2008	Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad	215	217/6	20.0	Rajasthan Royals	May 7, 2023	Jaipur
Mumbai Indians	215	216/4	18.5	Punjab Kings	May 3, 2023	Mohali
Mumbai Indians	213	214/4	19.3	Rajasthan Royals	April 30, 2023	Mumbai

Highest successful T20 run-chases

Team	Target	Score	Overs	Opposition	Date	Venue
South Africa	259	259/4	18.5	West Indies	Mar 26, 2023	Centurion
Middlesex	253	254/3	19.2	Surrey	June 22, 2023	The Oval
Australia	244	245/5	18.5	New Zealand	Feb 16, 2018	Auckland
Bulgaria	243	246/4	19.4	Serbia	June 26, 2022	Sofia
Multan Sultans	243	244/6	19.1	Quetta Gladiators	March 10, 2023	Rawalpindi