Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) Shreyas Iyer produced a stunning knock of 97* off just 42 balls against Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Narendra Modi Stadium, but was denied a chance to complete his maiden IPL century. His partner Shashank Singh took control in the final over, smashing Mohammed Siraj for multiple boundaries, as PBKS finished with a formidable 243/5.
Last-over carnage leaves Iyer helpless
Going into the final over, Iyer was unbeaten on 97, just one big shot away from a milestone century. However, he found himself at the non-striker’s end as Shashank Singh took on Siraj. The over went as follows:
- 19.1: FOUR – Shashank ramped Siraj over third man.
- 19.2: Two runs – Shashank shuffled across and flicked it for two.
- 19.3: FOUR – Shashank drove it beautifully through cover.
- 19.4: FOUR – Cut hard past sweeper cover.
- 19.5: WIDE – A poor delivery down the leg-side.
- 19.5: FOUR – Flicked over deep square-leg.
- 19.6: FOUR – A ramp shot over third man, sealing a 23-run final over.
Despite his heroics throughout the innings, Iyer could only watch as the strike remained with Shashank, preventing him from reaching his century.
Punjab finishes big despite Iyer’s heartbreak
While Iyer missed his landmark, he played a pivotal role in setting up PBKS’s imposing total. His knock included nine sixes and five fours, striking at a phenomenal 230.95. Meanwhile, Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 44* off 16 balls, with six fours and two sixes, ensured Punjab Kings finished on a high.
PBKS will now look to defend their huge total as Gujarat Titans chase 244 for victory
