NEW DELHI: Yuzvendra Chahal was the match-winner as Punjab Kings defended the lowest total in IPL history, pulling off a stunning 16-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday, April 16, 2025. In a high-pressure game where Punjab were bowled out for just 111 runs, Chahal’s brilliance with the ball turned the tide in favor of the hosts, earning him the Man of the Match award.
The leg-spinner picked up four crucial wickets, dismantling the core of KKR’s batting line-up and inspiring a dramatic win in front of a packed home crowd. This is now the lowest total ever defended in the history of the IPL, making the victory all the more iconic.
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“I always have the mindset of how to get the batters out,” Chahal said after the game.
“It is a team effort. We wanted to be positive and we felt if we get 2-3 wickets in the powerplay then it will be good. In the last game, I conceded 56 runs in 4 overs, but I had full confidence and backed myself and my abilities.”
Ponting’s Passionate Praise: “You Bowled Like You”
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Following the thrilling win, Punjab Head Coach Ricky Ponting addressed his team in the dressing room, lavishing praise on Chahal and the bowling unit for their grit and execution under pressure.
“I want to praise all the bowlers who were outstanding. But the little bloke sitting down here (pointing at Chahal) was tremendous,” said Ponting.
“We have challenged you a bit during the week as well to go back to being you and bowling like you. What did you do tonight? You bowled like you, and you won us the game.”
The Australian legend also had words of appreciation for the pace duo Marco Jansen (3/17) and Arshdeep Singh (1/11), both of whom played vital roles in applying the squeeze on the KKR batters.
“Arshdeep, you are used to take the new ball. But the attitude that you showed not doing so and accepting that was good to see. Then when the opportunity came for you, you stood up as the leader of the attack,” Ponting stated.
“The way that we started with the ball led by Marco was tremendous. We had spoken in the bowlers’ meeting about how Marco had dismissed Narine twice in five balls. That strategy worked perfectly for us.”
Despite being on the back foot after their batting collapse, the Kings showcased immense character and resilience. The crowd at New Chandigarh played a key role too, backing their side with unwavering support through every over.
With four wins in six games, Punjab now sit in fourth place on the points table. But Ponting urged his team to stay grounded and focused.
“Let’s not get too carried away with what has happened tonight,” he said.
“We have set a standard for ourselves—on belief, on understanding what it’s going to take for us to win tough games.”
Chahal, reflecting on his performance, added:
“When you win such a game, the team’s morale will be high. It’s my first man of the match for Punjab, and I’m confident if I keep backing my skills and believe in myself, then I will get success.”
