Manpreet Gony's innings came at a crucial juncture when Kings XI Punjab were looking to set a competitive total against Kolkata Knight Riders with 42 runs
Punjab Kings was initially named Kings XI Punjab when the IPL began in 2008, but it rebranded as Punjab Kings ahead of the 2021 season. Despite having some star-studded lineups over the years, Punjab Kings has struggled to secure consistent success in the IPL. They have reached the playoffs several times but have yet to win the coveted IPL title.
While PBKS may not always be known for their lower-order batting prowess, there have been occasions when their tail-enders have risen to the occasion and delivered memorable performances with the bat. Here are five notable instances.
Manpreet Gony's innings against Kolkata Knight Riders was a game-changer for Kings XI Punjab. Coming in at number 7, he displayed remarkable batting prowess, scoring 42 runs off just 18 balls at a staggering strike rate of 233.33. Gony's innings were characterised by aggressive strokeplay, including four boundaries and three impressive sixes. His fearless approach towards the end of the innings provided crucial momentum to Kings XI Punjab, enabling them to post a challenging total of 157/9. Thanks to Gony's contribution, Kings XI Punjab defended their total, securing a narrow victory over Kolkata Knight Riders by four runs.
In the IPL 2021 clash between PBKS and Kolkata Knight Riders, Chris Jordan emerged as a crucial figure for the Punjab Kings despite their eventual loss. Arriving at the crease with PBKS struggling at 95/7, Jordan's aggressive batting turned the tide. He smashed 30 runs off 18 balls, including three towering sixes and one boundary, at an impressive strike rate 166.66. Jordan's fearless approach bolstered Punjab's innings, helping them reach a competitive total of 123/9. Although PBKS couldn't secure a victory, Jordan's impactful innings added crucial runs and kept them in contention till the end.
During the IPL 2008 semi-final, Ramesh Powar's resilient innings for KXIP provided a glimmer of hope. Batting at number 8, he scored an unbeaten 28 off 21 balls, with four boundaries and 1 six, amidst a challenging situation. Despite his efforts, KXIP couldn't defend their total of 112/8 as CSK comfortably chased down the target. Nonetheless, Powar's innings stood out as a commendable effort under pressure.
Piyush Chawla's highest IPL score of 24* runs, achieved in the match against Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2008 season, highlights his proficiency as a lower-order batsman. Coming in at number 8, Chawla's innings were crucial in boosting Punjab Kings' total to a competitive score of 166/8 for Punjab. Chawla played an aggressive inning, scoring 24 runs off just 11 balls at a staggering strike rate 218.18. His innings included four boundaries. However, RR won the match by six wickets.
In the IPL 2022, Rabada showcased his batting prowess by scoring 25 runs off just 16 deliveries, including four boundaries and 1 six when he came to bat at no.9. His aggressive batting helped Punjab Kings reach a total of 137 runs, contributing significantly to their innings. Punjab Kings fell short despite his efforts as KKR chased the target with 33 balls to spare.
