In the 2024 IPL match at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday, Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured a remarkable victory by completing the highest run chase in T20 cricket history, defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 8 wickets.
KKR set a target of 261, which PBKS effectively pursued, amassing 262 runs. This accomplishment presently holds the title of the highest successful chase in T20 cricket worldwide. Furthermore, Punjab exceeded the previous record for the highest chase by 38 runs, with 6 wickets remaining.
Led by an explosive innings from opener Jonny Bairstow, who remained unbeaten with a dazzling 108 off only 48 deliveries, Punjab Kings demonstrated their formidable batting prowess in a remarkable exhibition at the Eden Gardens. Bairstow’s knock, comprising of eight boundaries and nine towering sixes, injected the much-needed momentum for PBKS to secure the victory. Additionally, Impact Player Prabhsimran Singh played a vital role by contributing a blistering 54 off just 20 balls, setting the tone early on.
The team’s impressive score of 262-2 in the IPL not only solidifies their position in history but also serves as their highest innings. This remarkable achievement comes after a series of underwhelming performances, showcasing a remarkable turnaround. Additionally, the Kings’ extraordinary pursuit of victory matches the record for the highest score in IPL history for a team batting second, which was previously set by Royal Challengers Bangalore with a score of 262-7 earlier in the season.
During the PBKS and KKR match, the number of sixes hit remained consistent. Both teams managed to strike 42 sixes, surpassing the previous joint-record of 38. This record was set during the clashes between SRH and MI, as well as RCB and SRH. Out of the total 42 sixes, PBKS players Jonny Bairstow, Shashank Singh, Prabhsimran Singh, and Rilee Rossouw collectively hit 24 sixes, which stands as the highest tally in a single innings.
The combined total runs scored by PBKS and KKR amounted to 523, marking the second-highest aggregate in a T20 match after the RCB and SRH encounter, which saw a joint score of 549.
