Lucknow, May 5 (UNI) Sunil Narine once again showcased his prowess in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a breathtaking innings that propelled Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a formidable total of 235 for six against hosts Lucknow Super Giants.
The electrifying display of power hitting unfolded at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium on Sunday, leaving spectators in awe.
Renowned for his aggressive batting style, the West Indian all-rounder dismantled the Lucknow Super Giants’ bowling attack with an array of boundaries and sixes.
Narine’s knock of 81 runs off just 38 balls set the tone for KKR’s innings, marked by audacious stroke play and an unwavering assault on the opposition’s bowlers.
From the outset, Narine’s intent was clear as he blazed his way to five boundaries in five balls, laying the foundation for KKR’s imposing total. Despite being dropped twice within a span of two balls, Narine maintained his aggression, punishing the bowlers with disdain.
Partnering with Phil Salt (32), Narine orchestrated a rapid 61-run partnership before Salt’s departure momentarily slowed down the scoring rate.
However, Narine continued his onslaught, reaching his fifty off just 27 deliveries and showcasing his ability to accelerate the innings.
Even as Lucknow attempted to stem the flow of runs, Narine remained undeterred, unleashing his fury on Marcus Stoinis with three consecutive sixes in an over. Despite surviving two dropped catches earlier in the innings, Narine’s fireworks eventually came to an end when Ravi Bishnoi dismissed him.
KKR’s momentum, however, remained intact, thanks to valuable contributions from Ramandeep Singh, whose unbeaten 25 off 6 balls propelled the team past the 230-run mark.
As Lucknow Super Giants prepare to chase down KKR’s imposing total on a batting-friendly pitch at the Lucknow Cricket Stadium, they face the daunting task of countering Narine’s dominance and overcoming the mountainous target set by the Kolkata-based franchise.
