In a high-scoring thriller at Eden Gardens, Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 2 wickets with 0 balls remaining, thanks to a breathtaking unbeaten century from Jos Buttler.
Chasing a mammoth target of 224, set by KKR after Sunil Narine’s maiden T20 century, RR was in trouble at 85/5 in the 8th over. However, Buttler took the attack to the opposition and single-handedly brought RR back into the game with a stunning knock of 107* off just 60 balls, laced with 9 fours and 6 sixes.
Earlier, KKR posted an imposing total of 223/6 in their 20 overs, with Narine smashing 109 off just 49 balls. He was well supported by Angkrish Ranghuvanshi, who scored a quickfire 30 off 17 deliveries. Read More IPL match review
For RR, Avesh Khan and Kuldeep Sen were the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 wickets each, RR lost early wick in replyets, but Butler kept them in the hurt with his aggressive batting. He found an able ally in Ravichandran Ashwin, who contributed a valuable 26 off 13 balls.
The match went down to the wire, with RR needing 16 off the final over. Buttler kept his cool and hit a six and a four off the first two balls to seal a thrilling victory for his team.
This win takes RR to the top of the IPL 2024 points table, while KKR remains in second place despite the loss.
Key Highlights:
- Sunil Narine’s maiden T20 century propels KKR to 223/6.
- Jos Buttler’s unbeaten 107 off 60 balls leads RR’s successful chase.
- RR equal their record for the highest successful run-chase in IPL history.
- Rajasthan Royals won by 2 wickets with 0 balls remaining.
Player of the Match:
Jos Buttler (RR) for his match-winning knock of 107* off 60 balls.
What the Captains Said:
Shreyas Iyer (KKR): “We gave it our all, but Buttler played an exceptional innings. Credit to him for taking the game deep and finishing it off for his team. We’ll go back to the drawing board and work on our areas of improvement.”
Sanju Samson (RR): “It was a special innings from Jos. He’s been in tremendous form and has been winning us games single-handedly. The team showed great character to bounce back from a difficult situation and pull off this victory.”
What the Experts Said:
Sunil Gavaskar: “Jos Buttler is in the form of his life. He’s batting with such confidence and authority, and is making a strong case for himself as one of the best T20 batters in the world right now.” Read more
Harsha Bhogle: “This was a game for the ages. Both teams played their hearts out, but in the end, Buttler’s brilliance made the difference. It was an innings that will be remembered for a long time.”
What the Fans Said:
“What a match! Jos Buttler is a freak. He makes chasing 224 looks like a walk in the park.”
“Sunil Narine’s century was a treat to watch. He’s truly one of the most entertaining cricketers of our time.”
‘KKR will be kicking themselves for not being able to defend such a huge total. But full credit to RR for pulling off an incredible victory.”
In conclusion, this IPL 2024 clash between KKR and RR will go down as one of the greatest T20 matches of all time. Jos Buttler’s heroic innings and Sunil Narine’s brilliant century made for a thrilling contest that kept the fans on the edge of their seats till the very end.
