In the previous match, Punjab Kings couldn’t win despite scoring 245 runs. But in the very next game, they managed to defend a mere 111 runs and secured a 16-run victory against the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders.
Ricky Ponting jumped up in the dugout after Andre Russell was dismissed. He joined the rest of the coaching staff and players in wild celebration. The whole team went near the gallery to celebrate with the fans, and the celebration continued for quite a while.
With a microphone in hand, standing in front of the TV cameras, the Australian legend seemed unable to contain his excitement after such a thrilling win. He said, “My heartbeat is still very high, probably over 200. At this age—over 50—I really don’t need too many matches like this.”
The former Australian star, who led his country to a record number of World Cup titles, added, “Isn’t this game amazing? Just three days ago, we couldn’t win even after scoring 245. And today, we won by 16 runs with only 111 on the board.”
Ponting continued, “Honestly, I told the boys during the break that sometimes chasing small targets can be the toughest challenge. The wicket wasn’t easy either. As you saw throughout the match, the ball was stopping a bit.”
“This kind of win is one of the sweetest feelings. I told them, if we manage to win, it’ll probably go down as one of the best victories in our lives. And that’s exactly what happened. I’ve coached in many IPL matches, but this one is my best win.”
At one point during the 112-run chase, Kolkata was cruising at 62 for 2. But then Yuzvendra Chahal turned the game around. After breaking the partnership by dismissing Ajinkya Rahane, the experienced leg-spinner picked up three more quick wickets.
After the match, Ponting said, “How brilliant was Chahal today! What a fantastic spell he bowled! We left it to him this week. After injuring his shoulder in the last match, he had to undergo a fitness test before this game.”
