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The Eden Gardens in Kolkata set the stage for a high-octane clash as Punjab Kings (PBKS) locked horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 44th match of IPL 2025. With both teams eyeing a crucial win to bolster their playoff hopes, PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bat first, aiming to put up a formidable total on the board. The decision was vindicated early as PBKS openers came out all guns blazing, setting the tone for a memorable evening.
Prabhsimran Singh’s stuninng switch hit to Sunil Narine
The highlight of the first innings-and arguably one of the most audacious shots of the season-came in the 11th over. Facing the legendary Sunil Narine, Prabhsimran Singh showcased his flair and confidence with a jaw-dropping switch hit. On the third ball of the 11th over, Narine tossed one up on leg stump. Prabhsimran, reading the length early, executed a perfect switch of his stance and walloped the ball clean over deep square leg for a massive six. The Eden Gardens crowd was left stunned, while the PBKS dugout erupted in applause for the sheer innovation and timing of the shot.
Prabhsimran’s ability to play such unconventional strokes is no fluke. He has previously credited his relentless practice in the nets for mastering sweeps and switch hits, drawing inspiration from the positive mindset instilled by his coach and the freedom to express himself at the crease. This six not only underlined his growing reputation as a fearless batter but also shifted the momentum firmly in Punjab’s favour.
Here’s the video:
Stylish and Audacious 😎
A brilliant 120-run opening partnership comes to an end 👏 121/1 after 12 overs.
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— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL)
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PBKS batters shine bright against KKR
The Punjab Kings’ top order made the most of a batting-friendly pitch and a lightning-fast outfield at Eden Gardens. Openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran forged a scintillating partnership, racing to 50 in just 4.3 overs. Arya was the aggressor early on, reaching his half-century off 27 balls with an array of boundaries and innovative shots. Prabhsimran, meanwhile, played the perfect foil-rotating strike, punishing loose deliveries, and unleashing the occasional big hit, including his spectacular switch-hit six.
By the end of the 13th over, Punjab Kings had amassed 139 for 1, maintaining a run rate above 10.5. Arya departed after a dazzling 69 off 35 balls, but Prabhsimran continued unfazed, notching up his own half-century before falling to Vaibhav Arora on 83 from 48 balls, peppered with 6 fours and 6 sixes. Captain Iyer ensured the momentum was maintained with his blistering knock of 25 runs and Josh Inglis‘ brief cameo.
The KKR bowlers, including Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, and Harshit Rana, struggled to contain the onslaught, with only Chakravarthy managing to keep his economy in check. As the innings progressed, PBKS scored 201/4 in their allotted 20 overs.
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