In an epic showdown in the IPL, Punjab Kings made history by chasing down a massive target set by Kolkata Knight Riders. Led by Jonny Bairstow’s incredible hundred, Punjab Kings achieved the highest run chase ever recorded in T20 cricket. They successfully overhauled KKR’s daunting 262-run target with eight wickets to spare.

Record-breaking run chase by PBKS 

KKR got off to a flying start, thanks to a blazing 138-run partnership between openers Phil Salt and Sunil Narine. Their batters kept the momentum going, setting up an imposing total of 261/6.

Punjab Kings, however, were not to be outdone. They began their innings with a bang, scoring 93 runs in the powerplay, albeit losing Prabhsimran Singh’s wicket. Prabhsimran’s quickfire 54 off just 20 balls set the tone for the chase.

Jonny Bairstow plays like a game-changer 

However, it was Bairstow who stole the show with his brutal onslaught. He smashed his way to a magnificent 108 off only 48 balls, well-supported by Shashank Singh, who contributed a blistering 68 off just 28 balls.

As Bairstow brought up his century in just 45 balls and Shashank completed his fifty in 23 balls, Punjab Kings marched towards victory with sheer dominance.

See Also: Why is ‘Worst IPL’ trending despite record chase by PBKS at Eden?

The match concluded with Punjab Kings securing a resounding victory, beating KKR by 8 wickets. This remarkable feat not only secured their place in IPL history but also etched their names in the annals of T20 cricket with a record-breaking run chase.

Punjab Kings etched their name in cricketing history on April 26th, 2024, with an unprecedented feat in T20 cricket.The match between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) witnessed a historic chase, as PBKS successfully pursued a formidable target of 262 runs, clinching victory with eight wickets in hand. This remarkable achievement secured a crucial win and set a new benchmark in the world of T20 cricket.

The Record-Breaking Chase

Jonny Bairstow emerged as the match’s hero, delivering a masterful century that propelled Punjab Kings to victory. Bairstow’s exceptional batting prowess and aggressive intent were on full display as he dominated the opposition bowlers with remarkable strokeplay and precision timing.

See Also: Punjab Kings beat Kolkata Knight Riders by 8 wickets

Bairstow’s Century

Bairstow reached his century milestone in the 16th over, displaying exceptional timing and power in his stroke-play. It took him 45 deliveries to achieve this feat, showcasing his aggressive intent immediately. Bairstow’s century was complemented by a blistering partnership with Shashank Singh, who played a pivotal role in accelerating the run rate with a quickfire 68 runs off just 28 balls.

High-Scoring Match

The match witnessed a flurry of runs and sixes, with 523 runs scored from both teams, aided by an astounding 42 sixes. This staggering display of power hitting not only enthralled cricket fans but also showcased the sheer entertainment and excitement that T20 cricket has to offer.

Fan Reactions and Criticisms

After witnessing such a high-scoring and thrilling encounter, cricket fans took to social media to express their reactions. Some hailed the match as one of the greatest in IPL history, praising the players for their exceptional performance. However, there were also criticisms, with some fans expressing disappointment and comparing the IPL unfavorably to other cricket leagues, such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

The cricket world witnessed an extraordinary display of skill and determination as Punjab Kings (PBKS) achieved the most successful chase in T20 cricket history, surpassing Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) daunting target of 262 runs in Match 42 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 at the Eden Gardens.

PBKS’ Incredible Chase

Led by Jonny Bairstow’s stellar century and Shashank Singh’s explosive batting, PBKS pulled off a remarkable victory, chasing the target with eight wickets and eight balls to spare. Bairstow’s breathtaking innings of 108 runs off 48 balls and Shashank’s blistering 68 off just 28 deliveries set the stage for PBKS’ historic triumph.

See Also: Netizens question KKR for sending Shreyas ahead of Rinku Singh

PBKS’ Stellar Performance

Prabhsimran Singh and Jonny Bairstow provided PBKS with a rollicking start, forging a formidable opening partnership of 93 runs off just 36 balls. Prabhsimran’s quickfire fifty in 18 balls set the tone for PBKS’ aggressive pursuit. Despite Prabhsimran’s dismissal, Bairstow continued to dominate the KKR bowlers, reaching his century in just 45 balls, marking his second century in the IPL.

With Prabhsimran’s departure, Rilee Rossouw joined Bairstow at the crease, continuing the team’s momentum with another formidable partnership of 85 runs from 36 balls. Rossouw’s innings, however, met its end as he lost his wicket to Sunil Narine, with Shreyas Iyer completing the dismissal with a catch.

After Rossouw’s exit, Shashank Singh partnered with Bairstow in the middle. Meanwhile, the Englishman reached his century, taking just 45 balls on the final delivery of the 16th over. Shashank sustained the attack from the other end, injecting vitality into PBKS’s pursuit. He achieved his fifty in the 18th over off just 23 deliveries. Together, the pair orchestrated a match-winning partnership, accumulating 84 runs in just 37 balls. Shashank remained unbeaten with an impressive 68 runs off 28 balls, while Bairstow stood firm with 108 runs from 48 deliveries.

KKR’s Explosive Start

In the first innings, KKR’s explosive start, fueled by Phil Salt and Sunil Narine’s onslaught, propelled them to a mammoth total of 261/6. Salt and Narine’s 138-run opening partnership, characterized by aggressive hitting and impeccable timing, laid the foundation for KKR’s formidable total. However, PBKS’ disciplined bowling and fielding efforts restricted KKR’s scoring in the later stages of the innings.

While Salt made 75, Narine slammed 71. The duo was also helped by PBKS dropping three catches collectively in the first seven overs to smash the bowlers to all parts of the park. After the duo fell, Andre Russell, Shreyas Iyer, and Venkatesh Iyer brought out the big hits to take KKR to the highest-ever IPL total at Eden Gardens, with the help of 22 fours and 18 sixes.

Salt and Narine’s 138-run partnership against PBKS is the second-highest opening partnership by any KKR pair in IPL history, behind the unbeaten 184-run stand shared by Chris Lynn and Gautam Gambhir against Gujarat Lions on 7 April 2017.

The High-Octane Encounter

The match witnessed a flurry of boundaries and sixes, with a record-breaking 42 sixes smashed, marking the highest number in IPL history. Both teams’ relentless pursuit of victory kept the spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the match, showcasing the competitive spirit of the IPL.

KKR bowling today
Narine: 1/24 from 4 overs (ER: 6)
Others: 0/236 from 14.4 overs (ER: 16.09)

Highest scores in a T20 run-chase
262/2 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, IPL 2024
262/7 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, IPL 2024
259/4 – South Africa vs West Indies, Centurion, 2023
254/3 – Middlesex vs Surrey, The Oval, T20 Blast 2023
253/8 – Quetta Gladiators vs Multan Sultans, Rawalpindi, PSL 2023

Most sixes in an IPL innings
24 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
22 – SRH vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2024
22 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
21 – RCB vs PWI, Bengaluru, 2013
Only Nepal have managed more sixes in an innings in Men’s T20 cricket than PBKS today. They hit 26 during their monumental 314/3 effort against Mongolia in Hangzhou at the Asian Games last year.

Most sixes in a Men’s T20 match
42 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, IPL 2024
38 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, IPL 2024
38 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, IPL 2024
37 – Balkh Legends v Kabul Zwanan, Sharjah, APL 2018/19
37 – SKNP vs JT, Basseterre, CPL 2019

Highest aggregates in an IPL match
549 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, 2024
523 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
523 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
469 – CSK vs RR, Chennai, 2010
465 – DC vs SRH, Delhi, 2024

Highest targets successfully chased in the IPL
262 – PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
224 – RR vs PBKS, Sharjah, 2020
224 – RR vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
219 – MI vs CSK, Delhi, 2021

Highest targets successfully chased in Men’s T20 cricket
262 – Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Kolkata, IPL 2024
259 – South Africa vs West Indies, Centurion, 2023
253 – Middlesex vs Surrey, The Oval, T20 Blast 2023
244 – Australia vs New Zealand, Auckland, 2018
243 – Bulgaria vs Serbia, Sofia, 2022
243 – Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi, Rawalpindi, PSL 2023

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.

See Also: Netizens question KKR for sending Shreyas ahead of Rinku Singh

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

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

Highest successful T20 run-chases

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased their batting prowess against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League 2024 match in Kolkata on April 26. They crushed the opposition bowling attack and set a daunting total of 261 for 6.

Highest Total in IPL at Eden Gardens

KKR’s total of 261 for six at Eden Gardens secured a convincing victory and marked the highest total in IPL history at the venue. This remarkable achievement underscores KKR’s dominance on their home turf and showcases their batting firepower in the tournament.

See Also: IPL 2024: Phil Salt joins the elite list of Russell and Maxwell

Sunil Narine and Phil Salt’s Rapid Start

The foundation of KKR’s imposing total was laid by Sunil Narine and Phil Salt, who started the innings with aggressive intent. Their explosive partnership took KKR to 138 runs in just 10.2 overs before Narine’s dismissal, setting the stage for a formidable total.

Contribution of Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer

After Narine and Salt’s early dismissals, Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer continued the onslaught, adding crucial runs to the scoreboard. Their partnership of 40 runs in just 3 overs provided momentum to KKR’s innings, further consolidating their position.

Fan Reactions to Rinku Singh’s Dismissal and Skipper’s Batting Position

The dismissal of Rinku Singh sparked controversy among KKR fans, who expressed disappointment with the team management’s decision to send skipper Shreyas Iyer ahead of him. Despite fan demands for Rinku Singh to bat, Shreyas Iyer showcased his batting prowess with a quickfire innings. Shreyas Iyer scored 28 runs in just 10 balls.

KKR’s Dominance Over PBKS Bowlers

KKR’s aggressive batting approach left the Punjab Kings’ bowlers struggling to contain the onslaught. Arshdeep Singh, Sam Curran, Harshal Patel, and Rahul Chahar were among the wicket-takers for Punjab Kings, but they failed to stem the flow of runs against KKR’s relentless batting lineup.

Sloppy Fielding by Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings’ fielding woes compounded their bowling difficulties, adding several dropped catches. The sloppy fielding performance further dented their chances of restricting KKR’s run-scoring, allowing the opposition to capitalize on the missed opportunities.

Most expensive bowling returns for PBKS
0/66 – Mujeeb Ur Rahman vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2019
1/66 – Arshdeep Singh vs MI, Mohali, 2023
1/65 – Sandeep Sharma vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2014
0/62 – Michael Neser vs RCB, Mohali, 2013
1/60 – Sam Curran vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024

Most 250+ totals in Men’s T20 cricket
3 – Surrey
3 – SRH
2 – Czech Republic
2 – Somerset
2 – Yorkshire
2 – RCB
2 – KKR

Most sixes in an IPL innings for KKR
18 vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024
18 vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
17 vs CSK, Chennai, 2018
17 vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2019

250-plus team totals in the IPL
287/3 – SRH vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2024
277/3 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
272/7 – KKR vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024
266/7 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
263/5 – RCB vs PWI, Bengaluru, 2013
261/6 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
262/7 – RCB vs SRH, Bengaluru, 2024
257/5 – LSG vs PBKS, Mohali, 2023

English batter Phil Salt showcased his power-hitting prowess in Kolkata Knight Riders’ ongoing IPL 2024 clash against Punjab Kings, smashing a blistering fifty.

Phil Salt’s Fifty and Dismissal

Phil Salt reached the fifty-run mark in just 25 deliveries, exhibiting aggressive batting against Punjab Kings’ bowling attack. However, his innings ended when Punjab’s stand-in captain, Sam Curran, clean bowled him with a toe-crushing yorker during the 13th over of KKR’s innings.

See Also: IPL 2024: Another blistering start from Narine-Salt against PBKS

Curran’s Remarkable Comeback

Sam Curran’s over started poorly, with Phil Salt hammering him for two successive sixes. However, Curran made a remarkable comeback, delivering a perfect yorker to uproot Salt’s off stump. Despite Salt’s aggressive response, Curran’s precise bowling effectively dismissed the dangerous batter. Philip Salt b Sam Curran 75(37) [4s-6 6s-6]

Salt’s Reaction to Dismissal

After getting out, Phil Salt expressed disappointment by slamming his head angrily while returning to the dugout. His frustration was evident, reflecting his desire to capitalize on the solid start he provided to KKR’s innings.

Records Set by Salt in IPL 2024

Phil Salt achieved a significant milestone in IPL 2024 by scoring 500 runs in the fewest balls among foreign batters. His feat places him among the elite in IPL history and highlights his impact as a dynamic opener for KKR.

Least balls taken to 500 runs in IPL by Foreign batters

260 – Glenn Maxwell
284 – Travis Head
294 – Andre Russell
297 – Phil Salt*
298 – Henrich Klaasen

Salt’s explosive innings and Sunil Narine’s contribution provided KKR with a dream start to their innings. Their aggressive batting set the tone for a formidable total, laying a solid foundation for the middle order to build upon.

KKR’s Highest Total in IPL 2024

Riding on scintillating knocks from Salt and Narine, KKR registered their highest Indian Premier League total in Kolkata during the IPL 2024 match against Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens. The impressive batting display showcased KKR’s dominance in the game. PBKS need 262 to win the match in 20 overs.

Sunil Narine and Phil Salt set the stage on fire with their explosive batting performance for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 42 of IPL 2024 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, against Punjab Kings.

Narine and Salt’s Explosive Partnership

In a display of aggressive batting, Sunil Narine and Phil Salt propelled KKR to a blistering start after Sam Curran, the Punjab Kings’ captain, chose to field first. Their fearless approach saw KKR racing to 70 runs off just five overs, courtesy of their explosive hitting that left the opposition reeling. They have added 137 runs in 10 overs.

See Also: Mitchell Starc unavailable for KKR vs PBKS today; Here’s why

Highest scores after first 10 overs of an IPL innings
158/4 – SRH vs DC, Delhi, 2024
148/2 – SRH vs MI, Hyderabad, 2024
141/2 – MI vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2024
138/4 – DC vs SRH, Delhi, 2024
137/0 – KKR vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
135/1 – KKR vs DC, Visakhapatnam, 2024

Highest partnerships for KKR in the IPL (any wicket)
184* – Gautam Gambhir & Chris Lynn vs GL, Rajkot, 2017
158 – Gautam Gambhir & Robin Uthappa vs RPS, Pune, 2017
152* – Gautam Gambhir & Jacques Kallis vs RR, Jaipur, 2011
138 – Sunil Narine & Phil Salt vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024
136 – Manvinder Bisla & Jacques Kallis vs CSK, Chennai, 2012 final
The 138-run partnership between Narine and Salt was the 8th 100-plus opening stand for KKR in the IPL, and the first since 105 between Narine and Lynn against RCB in Bengaluru back in 2017.

Highest run-rates for a 100-plus opening stand in the IPL
20.68 – 131 off 38 – Travis Head & Abhishek Sharma (SRH) vs DC, Delhi, 2024
17.02 – 105 off 37 – Chris Lynn & Sunil Narine (KKR) vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2017
14.86 – 109 off 44 – Brendon McCullum & Dwayne Smith (CSK) vs MI, Mumbai WS, 2015
13.36 – 147 off 66 – Chris Gayle & Virat Kohli (RCB) vs PBKS, Bengaluru, 2016
13.35 – 138 off 62 – Sunil Narine & Phil Salt (KKR) vs PBKS, Kolkata, 2024

Phil Salt’s Dominance Against Harshal Patel

Phil Salt’s onslaught against Punjab Kings’ bowler Harshal Patel was a sight. With relentless aggression, Salt targeted Patel’s deliveries, dispatching them to the boundary with ease. His ability to find gaps and unleash powerful shots showcased his prowess as a destructive opener. Phil Salt reaches the fifty-run mark in 25 deliveries.

Least balls taken to 500 runs in IPL by Foreign batters

260 – Glenn Maxwell
284 – Travis Head
294 – Andre Russell
297 – Phil Salt*
298 – Henrich Klaasen

Narine’s Contribution to the Partnership

Sunil Narine complemented Salt’s ferocity with his brand of power-hitting. Narine’s fearless approach saw him taking charge against Kagiso Rabada, smashing boundaries and sixes to disrupt the opposition’s plans. His contribution added impetus to KKR’s innings, setting the tone for a formidable total.

Most runs in the Powerplay in IPL 2024
259 – Travis Head (SR: 229.20)
216 – Virat Kohli (SR: 155.39)
204 – Sunil Narine (SR: 177.39)
201 – Abhishek Sharma (SR: 233.72)
193 – Phil Salt (SR: 175.45)

Impact on KKR’s Innings

The explosive partnership between Narine and Salt piled pressure on the opposition and injected momentum into KKR’s batting lineup. Their aggressive batting laid a solid foundation for the middle order to capitalize on, putting KKR in a commanding position in the match.

Lucknow Super Giants‘ fast bowler, Mayank Yadav, is on the verge of returning to action after being sidelined due to injury. LSG’s assistant coach S Sriram provides an update on Mayank Yadav’s recovery process, his recent bowling status, performance analysis, and support for his development in IPL 2024.

Update on Mayank Yadav’s Bowling Status

According to LSG’s assistant coach, S Sriram, Mayank Yadav has resumed bowling in the nets and is “pretty close” to returning to action. Sriram expressed optimism about Mayank’s progress, stating that his participation in the upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals would depend on how he pulls up after the practice session.

See Also: Mitchell Starc unavailable for KKR vs PBKS today; Here’s why

“He’s bowling today in the nets,” Sriram said on the eve of LSG’s match against Rajasthan Royals on Saturday. “So we’ll find out how he pulls up after today, he’s pretty close, so ya hopefully, fingers crossed.”

Mayank Yadav’s Performance in IPL 2024

Mayank Yadav made an impressive debut in IPL 2024, showcasing his talent with a three-wicket haul against Punjab Kings. He continued his stellar performance by claiming another Player of the Match award in the next game against RCB, displaying consistent speeds above 150 kph. However, his campaign was interrupted when he walked off the field due to abdominal soreness after bowling just one over against Gujarat Titans, causing him to miss four subsequent matches.

“I think he’s a pretty grounded person, I’ve just worked with him for the last month or so. He seems very mature and he knows his body well, which is very good for a young rookie fast bowler. I think coming from Delhi he has that cricket culture with him. He knows how to look after himself, he has a good cricketing sense in terms of the areas he bowls in, his execution has been very good,” Sriram said.

“More than the pace that he’s provided I think his execution and the lengths that he’s hit have been standout for me. The number 155 is a by-product of his rhythm and the run-up speed and the arm speed, but accuracy with which he’s bowled has stood out and for me that is critical.”

Evaluation of Mayank Yadav’s Bowling Prowess

Mayank Yadav’s bowling prowess has garnered attention, particularly his ability to bowl above 150 kph consistently. Despite his impressive pace, experts emphasize his accuracy and execution as standout qualities. Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop highlighted the need for investment in Mayank’s development, emphasizing the importance of nurturing his talent and managing his injury history.

Support for Mayank Yadav’s Development

Cricket experts, including Ian Bishop, advocate investing in Mayank Yadav’s career to maximize his potential. Suggestions include providing personalized strength-and-conditioning training, access to medical and dietary support, and continuous monitoring of his progress. Such investments aim to ensure Mayank’s long-term success and mitigate the risk of further injuries.

LSG’s Current Position in IPL 2024

Lucknow Super Giants currently occupy the fourth position in the IPL 2024 points table, with five wins in eight matches. Their recent victories against Chennai Super Kings have boosted their confidence as they prepare to face Rajasthan Royals in their upcoming home game.

The clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Eden Gardens on Friday, April 26, saw a significant change in KKR’s lineup. Mitchell Starc, the Australian pacer, was notably absent from the playing eleven due to a finger injury.

Mitchell Starc’s Absence and Replacement

Mitchell Starc’s absence from the match was attributed to a finger injury sustained during KKR’s previous encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 21. Sri Lanka pacer Dushmantha Chameera named Starc’s replacement in the playing XI.

See Also: ICC recalls the six sixes by Yuvraj Singh, names him the T20 WC 2024 ambassador

Skipper Shreyas Iyer’s Statement

KKR captain Shreyas Iyer provided insight into Starc’s injury and Chameera’s inclusion in the lineup. He mentioned that Starc had suffered a cut on his finger in the last game, necessitating Chameera’s presence. Iyer emphasized the team’s focus on achieving a solid start and converting it into a substantial score, expressing optimism about maintaining their form and momentum.

“Starcy got a cut on his finger in the last game, Dushmantha Chameera replaces him. Need a great start and then convert it into a big score, hoping to continue the same form and momentum,” Shreyas Iyer said after being asked to bat first by Punjab Kings.

Mitchell Starc’s Performance in IPL 2024

In IPL 2024, Mitchell Starc’s performance has been below expectations. Despite being the costliest buy in IPL history at Rs 24.75 crore, he has struggled to make a significant impact. With just six wickets in seven matches at an average of 47.83 and an economy rate of 11.48, Starc still needs to deliver consistently.

KKR’s Position in the IPL 2024 Points Table

Despite Starc’s challenges, KKR has maintained a strong position in the IPL 2024 points table. With five wins in seven matches, they are currently placed second, trailing only behind Chennai Super Kings (CSK). A victory against PBKS would consolidate their position and put them ahead of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

KKR vs PBKS Match Preview

In IPL 2024 match number 42, the Kolkata Knight Riders will host the Punjab Kings. The game will take place on April 26 at 7:30 PM IST at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. KKR has been a dominant force in IPL 2024. The team has played seven games, winning five and losing only two. They are comfortably ranked second in the points table. KKR only needs three wins in the remaining seven matches to qualify for the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Punjab Kings were becoming extremely poor. With the exception of Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, none of the team’s batters have performed well, resulting in a dismal performance.

KKR vs PBKS Match Details

Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings – 42th Match

Venue: Eden Gardens – Kolkata

Date & Time: 26th April 2024 at 07:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Jio Cinema

KKR vs PBKS Venue Stats

KKR vs PBKS Pitch Report

With most batters struggling on this pitch, the top of the lineup will need to take advantage of the powerplay in both innings. A par first innings total is unlikely to exceed 170.

KKR vs PBKS Weather Report

The temperature will be high at around 30 degrees.  The humidity will be 41 per cent and wind speed will be 29 km/h.

KKR vs PBKS Last Five Matches

KKR vs PBKS Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: OTD: When CSK claimed first IPL trophy 14 years ago

KKR vs PBKS Probable Playing XIs:

Kolkata Knight Riders Probable Playing XIs

Philip Salt (wk), Sunil Narine, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Shreyas Iyer (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Mitchell Starc, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harshit Rana

Punjab Kings Probable Playing XIs

Sam Curran (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Rilee Rossouw, Liam Livingstone, Shashank Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ashutosh Sharma, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh

Topmost Picks for KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Kolkata Knight Riders

• Sunil Narine – Sunil Narine has been brilliant for KKR. He has had his best season with the bat and played some astonishing innings at the top. 
• Harshit Rana –  Harshit Rana has also impressed with his pace and accuracy and bagged two wickets in the previous game. Overall, he has taken nine wickets this season.

Top Picks – Punjab Kings

• Prabhsimran Singh – Prabhsimran Singh has not been at his best but scored fluent 35 against GT in the last game. The knock should help him find his rhythm back so we can expect some runs from him in the next game.
• Kagiso Rabada –  Kagiso Rabada has bowled his heart out for PBKS. With 10 wickets in eight games, he has been mighty impressive.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Philip Salt(VC), Jitesh Sharma, Shashank Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Shreyas Iyer, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell(C), Sam Curran, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Harshit Rana

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for KKR vs PBKS Dream11 Team:

Philip Salt, Ashutosh Sharma, Shashank Singh, Liam Livingstone, Shreyas Iyer, Sunil Narine(C), Andre Russell, Sam Curran(VC), Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Andre Russell, Sunil Narine

Vice-captain – Philip Salt, Sam Curran

Wicketkeeper – Philip Salt

KKR vs PBKS Probable Winners:

KKR are clear favourites. The team performed outstanding cricket and is currently second on the points table. In contrast, PBKS has performed poorly, ranking ninth. PBKS does not have much quality, and the majority of their players are out of form. KKR should win the game easily. Considering the team combination, Kolkata Knight Riders are expected to win this match.