In the IPL 2024 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants, mentor Gautam Gambhir’s faith in Mitchell Starc paid off as the pacer claimed the crucial wicket of Deepak Hooda early on. KKR, bowling first, put up a strong performance in the powerplay, limiting LSG to 49-2.

Vaibhav Arora dismissed Quinton de Kock for 10 runs off 8 balls, while Ramandeep Singh took a remarkable catch to help Starc secure his first wicket. Despite Ayush Badoni’s contribution of 29 runs off 27 balls, Nicholas Pooran’s outstanding innings of 45 runs off 32 balls lifted LSG to a total of 161-7.

Starc emerged as KKR’s top bowler, taking three wickets and conceding 28 runs in his four overs. His crucial final over, conceding only six runs and dismissing Pooran, proved decisive in restricting LSG to a below-par total.

Chasing a target of 162, Kolkata Knight Riders faced early setbacks as they lost Sunil Narine and Angkrish Raghuvanshi in the powerplay. However, Phil Salt and Shreyas Iyer joined forces, orchestrating an unbeaten partnership of 120 runs. Salt’s explosive innings of 89 runs off 47 balls stole the show, while Iyer provided crucial support, adapting his innings to complement Salt’s aggression.

Kolkata sealed victory with ease, maintaining a perfect home record with their second consecutive win.

Last Updated on April 14, 2024

Senior Sports Copywriter