Punjab-Kings. (Photo Source: IPL)
The 5th match of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) saw Gujarat Titans face Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Gujarat Titans won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Punjab Kings got off to a flying start in the powerplay, scoring 74 runs for the loss of just one wicket. Their innings was anchored by debut captain Shreyas Iyer, who batted aggressively alongside Priyansh Arya (47 runs). However, the momentum slightly shifted after the 10th over when Punjab Kings lost two quick wickets, including Glenn Maxwell for a first-ball duck.
Despite the minor setback, Shreyas Iyer continued his onslaught, crafting a magnificent unbeaten 97 off just 42 balls. He was well-supported by Marcus Stoinis (20 runs) and Shashank Singh, who remained unbeaten with 44 off just 16. Their combined efforts powered Punjab Kings to a formidable 243/5 in 20 overs.
In response, Gujarat Titans started well with openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan attacking the Punjab Kings’ bowlers. However, Gill lost his wicket in the final over of the powerplay. At No. 3, Jos Buttler formed a crucial partnership with Sudharsan as they dominated the opposition bowling attack.
Just as Gujarat seemed to be cruising, Arshdeep Singh provided a breakthrough by dismissing the well-set Sudharsan for 74 off 41. At 169/2 after 14 overs, the Titans appeared to be on track for an easy chase. However, Punjab’s impact player Vijaykumar Vyshak turned the game around with an exceptional spell at the death, conceding only 28 runs in his three overs. His disciplined bowling helped Punjab Kings defend the total, securing a thrilling 11-run victory.
Here are the most important stats from the game:
- Shubman Gill: Completed 4,500 runs in T20s.
- Rashid Khan: Completed 150 wickets in IPL.
- Rashid Khan: Become the second Fastest Spinner to Reach 150 wickets in IPL.
- Shreyas Iyer: Completed 6,000 runs in T20s.
- Shreya Iyer: Completed 2,000 runs as a captain in IPL.
- Punjab Kings: Scored their second highest total in IPL: 243/5
- Glenn Maxwell: Most ducks in IPL: 19
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