Narine turns Super Over with two wickets in three balls
Sunil Narine delivered a decisive Super Over, conceding one run and taking two wickets in three balls to put Kolkata in control. Nicholas Pooran fell first ball, beaten by a tossed-up off-break while attempting a slog sweep. The ball hit middle stump.
Rishabh Pant managed a single but could not shift pressure. Aiden Markram then holed out off a mistimed loft. A relay effort between Rovman Powell and Rinku Singh completed the catch near the boundary. Lucknow ended on 1 for 2, leaving a minimal target.
In the dugout, Justin Langer showed visible frustration as the plan to send Pooran against Narine failed. The match-up had not favoured Pooran in previous meetings, and the risk did not pay off.
KKR stay calm as LSG misfire under pressure
Kolkata’s execution stood out. Narine stuck to a simple plan, bowling straight and denying room. Lucknow’s batters struggled to adjust, with both dismissals coming from attacking shots under pressure rather than defensive errors.
The decision-making will be questioned. Pooran’s record against Narine suggested caution, yet he was sent first. Markram followed immediately and could not settle. Pant was left with too much to do from the non-striker’s end.
Kolkata’s fielding also made a difference. The relay catch showed awareness and control in a high-pressure moment. Senior players guided the setup, with Ajinkya Rahane seen backing the bowler before the over.
With only one run required, Kolkata had a clear path. The Super Over was effectively decided within three deliveries.