In what will go down as one of the most shocking and memorable games in IPL history, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off a miracle at Eden Gardens, defending just 111 runs against the in-form Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to win by 16 runs. It’s now officially the lowest total ever defended in the history of the Indian Premier League, beating the previous record of 116 by CSK in 2009.
🏏 First Innings: PBKS Collapse Under KKR’s Spin Web
After being put into bat by KKR captain Shreyas Iyer, PBKS got off to a shaky start. Prabhsimran Singh tried to counterattack and scored a quickfire 30 off 15 balls, showing intent on a tricky Eden pitch. However, the middle-order fell apart quickly as the KKR spinners Sunil Narine (2/20) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/26) applied relentless pressure.
Harshit Rana stood out with figures of 3/25, ensuring Punjab never found any rhythm. Wickets kept tumbling, and the Kings were bowled out for just 111 in 15.3 overs — a total that looked far below par, even on a two-paced pitch.
🔥 Second Innings: The Greatest Bowling Comeback Ever
With only 111 to defend, most thought the game was all but over. But Punjab’s bowlers, led by veteran spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, had other plans. The leggie produced one of the most clutch spells in IPL memory, taking 4 wickets for just 28 runs, including the massive scalp of Andre Russell.
Marco Jansen complemented him brilliantly, using the bounce and seam to pick up 3 wickets for 17 runs. KKR, cruising at one point, suddenly found themselves in disarray — losing 8 wickets for just 33 runs.
From 61/2 to 95 all out, KKR’s collapse was nothing short of dramatic. Shreyas Iyer, Rinku Singh, Russell — all failed to stay at the crease, as Punjab’s bowlers held their nerve and executed their plans to perfection.
🎯 Turning Points of the Match:
Early Wickets: PBKS got key wickets in the powerplay, including Phil Salt and Venkatesh Iyer.
Chahal’s Middle Overs: His tight lines and smart variations strangled the chase.
KKR’s Panic: Despite having wickets in hand, the lower order fell under pressure and tried too hard to force big shots.
Jansen’s Double Blow: Removing Russell and Narine within an over swung the match completely.
📊 Match Summary:
PBKS: 111 all out (15.3 overs)
Prabhsimran Singh – 30 (15)
Harshit Rana – 3/25, Narine – 2/20
KKR: 95 all out (15.1 overs)
Shreyas Iyer – 22 (18)
Yuzvendra Chahal – 4/28, Marco Jansen – 3/17
Result: Punjab Kings won by 16 runs
Player of the Match: Yuzvendra Chahal
🗣️ Post-Match Reactions:
PBKS coach Ricky Ponting was emotional after the win:
“I’ve coached a lot of games in the IPL and that might just be about the best win I’ve ever had. I couldn’t be prouder of the boys.”
The result has thrown the points table wide open and has raised big questions for KKR’s batting depth.
📌 ScoreGuff Verdict:
This match was a perfect display of grit, fight, and belief. Despite being the underdogs with only 111 on the board, PBKS fought like champions and pulled off what seemed impossible. It’s matches like these that define the IPL — unpredictable, emotional, and unforgettable.
If Punjab can carry this momentum forward, they can still turn their season around. For KKR, it’s a wake-up call — and a reminder that no total is too small to respect.