The 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League is underway in Maharashtra right now, with the 66th match of the competition in the history books between two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants. LSG won the toss and elected to bat first at the DY Patil Stadium. The decision worked in LSG’s favor as Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul batted the entire 20 overs, scoring 210 runs for the team.
For the first time in the tournament’s history, a team batted full 20 overs without losing any wickets. The Kolkata Knight Riders bowlers had a forgettable day in the office as none of them could open their accounts. A 140-run knock from de Kock powered the Super Giants to a fantastic total of 210 runs.
At first, it seemed like the Lucknow Super Giants would register an easy win, but the Kolkata Knight Riders gave them a run for their money with a combined team effort. The trio of Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer and Rinku Singh helped the Kolkata-based franchise inch closer to the target.
Despite Quinton de Kock’s heroics, match went down to the last ball
Eventually, the equation came down to 3 runs off 2. Rinku Singh tried an aggressive shot off Marcus Stoinis’ bowling, but the ball was not timed to perfection.
Evin Lewis then stunned everyone with a one-handed catch as the Lucknow Super Giants gained the momentum back. Umesh Yadav faced the final ball with three runs needed. Stoinis bowled a fine delivery that knocked over his stumps as LSG won by two runs.
Speaking at the post-match presentation after winning the Man of the Match award, Quinton de Kock explained his celebration after the 100 and said:
“There was a bit of frustration that came out after the last couple of games. It was just nice to come out and actually do it after the last few games and release the pressure. Didn’t think it would be this close.”
