Sunil Narine lit up the Chepauk Stadium with a blistering 44 off just 18 balls in a low-scoring run chase, smashing 2 fours and 5 sixes before being bowled by Noor Ahmad. Attempting a wild heave across the line, Narine was undone by a beautifully disguised googly that knocked over middle and off stump. The KKR all-rounder’s explosive cameo gave his side a dream start in pursuit of 104.
With that wicket, Noor Ahmad further solidified his standing this season, becoming the Purple Cap holder with 11 wickets in just six matches. The young Afghan spinner continues to impress with his guile and control, especially in pressure situations.
Earlier in the match, Chennai Super Kings posted a disappointing 103/9 in 20 overs, their lowest-ever total at Chepauk and second-lowest first innings score in IPL history. Shivam Dube top-scored with 31 off 29, while Vijay Shankar chipped in with 29. The rest of the CSK line-up collapsed against KKR’s disciplined bowling attack, losing six wickets to spin alone.
Narine’s knock has now virtually sealed the game in KKR’s favour, with the team needing just 19 runs off 77 balls at the time of writing.
