Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) continued their winning momentum in IPL 2026 by defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a last-ball thriller at the Eden Gardens stadium. Chasing a target of 182, Lucknow reached the milestone on the final delivery of the match with 3 wickets in hand. This victory marks the second consecutive win for the Lucknow franchise this season, showcasing their depth in the batting order under pressure situations.
Mukul Chaudhary's Explosive Match-Winning Knock
The highlight of the match was the sensational performance by Mukul Chaudhary. Entering the crease when the team was struggling, Chaudhary turned the game on its head. With 43 runs required off the final 18 balls and 7 wickets down, the odds were stacked against LSG. However, Chaudhary remained composed, scoring an unbeaten 54 runs off just 27 deliveries. His aggressive approach in the death overs dismantled the KKR bowling attack and brought LSG back into the contest.
KKR Sets a Competitive Target of 182
Earlier in the evening, Lucknow Super Giants won the toss and elected to bowl first. Kolkata Knight Riders posted a solid total of 181/4 in their allotted 20 overs. The KKR top order provided a steady start, and the middle order capitalized on the scoring opportunities in the latter half of the innings. Despite some disciplined bowling from the LSG pacers in the powerplay, KKR managed to set a challenging target on a surface that offered assistance to both batsmen and bowlers.
Ayush Badoni's Crucial Half-Century
The chase for Lucknow was anchored by Ayush Badoni, who played a pivotal role in the middle overs. After the early loss of wickets, Badoni stabilized the innings with a well-crafted half-century. His ability to rotate the strike and hit boundaries at regular intervals kept the required run rate within reach. Badoni’s dismissal momentarily shifted the momentum back to Kolkata, but it set the stage for the late-order fireworks that eventually decided the outcome.
Final Over Drama and Fielding Lapse
The match reached a fever pitch in the final over, while mukul Chaudhary struck a massive six to level the scores, bringing the match to a tie. On the final delivery, a bye was taken as the batsmen scrambled for a run. KKR wicketkeeper Angkrish Raghuvanshi had an opportunity to effect a run-out, but his throw missed the stumps, allowing Lucknow to complete the single and secure a dramatic 3-wicket victory.
Rising Star from Jhunjhunu: Mukul Chaudhary
Mukul Chaudhary, the architect of Lucknow's victory, hails from Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan. His performance at the iconic Eden Gardens has established him as a significant talent to watch in the ongoing tournament. Having risen through the ranks of domestic cricket, Chaudhary's ability to finish games under extreme pressure has earned him widespread acclaim. His contribution proved to be the difference between the two sides in this high-stakes encounter.