In a dramatic Indian Premier League clash at Eden Gardens, a little-known 21-year-old turned the spotlight firmly on himself as Mukul Choudhary powered Lucknow Super Giants to a sensational three-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday.
Chasing a competitive 182, LSG appeared down and out before Choudhary unleashed a fearless counterattack, smashing an unbeaten 54 off just 27 balls. His remarkable late blitz, including 30 runs in the final two overs, guided his side to victory on the last ball in one of the most thrilling finishes of the season.
Earlier, KKR had put up a solid total built on contributions from captain Ajinkya Rahane (41), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (45), Cameron Green (32), and Rovman Powell (39). Rahane and Raghuvanshi laid the foundation with an 84-run partnership after a steady PowerPlay, displaying composure and calculated aggression.
Raghuvanshi, in particular, impressed with his shot selection, while Rahane mixed elegance with innovation. Later, Green and Powell accelerated the innings, adding 70 vital runs, with Powell showcasing his power-hitting abilities in a cameo reminiscent of KKR’s explosive tradition.
Despite the strong total, LSG’s chase got off to a shaky start. Vaibhav Arora struck early, removing Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh in quick succession. The pressure mounted further when Cameron Green dismissed LSG skipper Rishabh Pant, leaving the visitors struggling.
Spin ace Sunil Narine tightened the screws with a disciplined spell, exploiting conditions where the ball held slightly due to dew. Wickets fell at regular intervals, and KKR looked firmly in control.
However, Ayush Badoni kept LSG in the hunt with a composed 54, anchoring the innings amid the collapse. It was Choudhary, though, who shifted the momentum dramatically in the closing stages.
Displaying remarkable composure and audacity, the youngster attacked on both sides of the wicket, taking calculated risks against a disciplined bowling attack. His fearless strokeplay turned the equation in LSG’s favour when all seemed lost.
KKR’s bowlers, despite maintaining pressure for most of the innings, could not contain the late surge. The defeat leaves them still searching for their first win after four matches this season.
Earlier, LSG’s bowling effort was led by Mohammed Shami, who impressed with his accuracy and movement, ensuring KKR never ran away with the game.
In the end, it was a night that belonged to Mukul Choudhary. It was a breakout performance that not only secured a memorable win but also announced the arrival of a new finisher on the IPL stage.
