Shreyas Iyer's Heroics Propels Punjab Kings to Victory Over Gujarat Titans
Shreyas Iyer's 97 not out steered Punjab Kings to an 11-run triumph over Gujarat Titans in a thrilling high-scoring Indian Premier League match on Tuesday. Gujarat Titans, chasing an intimidating 244, battled bravely but couldn't cross the line, finishing at 232 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Though they had impressive shows from Sai Sudharsan (74), Shubman Gill (33), and Jos Buttler (54), the visitors couldn't cross the boundary. Sherfane Rutherford had a swift knock of 46, but his attempt at the death was not enough to win the match.
Earlier, Punjab Kings had topped 243 for 5 on the strength of Iyer's fiesta-like 97* off only 42 deliveries, which was studded with nine sixes and five fours. Shashank Singh offered a late flourish with his unbeaten 44 off 16 balls, hitting six fours and two sixes. Young opener Priyansh Arya struck the tone with his brisk 47 off 23 deliveries, hitting seven boundaries and two sixes.
Gujarat Titans bowlers could not stem the flow, with R Sai Kishore being the best of the lot, who ended up with 3/40. Punjab's bowlers, though, showed greater nerve with the last overs, as Arshdeep Singh (2/36) picked up the important wickets to help his team come out victorious. The win further strengthens Punjab Kings' chances with the team maintaining the momentum for the playoffs.
