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Jos Buttler’s Heroics Lead Rajasthan to Record-breaking IPL Victory over Kolkata
In a thrilling encounter at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, Jos Buttler’s scintillating unbeaten century propelled Rajasthan Royals to a historic triumph over Kolkata Knight Riders, completing a record-equalling chase of 224 runs on the final ball of the match.
Facing a daunting target of 224, Rajasthan found themselves in dire straits at 121-6 in the 13th over, seemingly destined for defeat. However, Buttler emerged as the catalyst for an extraordinary comeback, unleashing a breathtaking assault with a sensational 107 off just 60 deliveries, guiding Rajasthan to victory with two wickets in hand. This remarkable feat saw Rajasthan match their own record set in 2020 when they successfully chased down 224 against Kings XI Punjab in Sharjah.
Buttler’s heroic innings, marked by nine fours and six sixes, not only secured Rajasthan’s triumph but also etched his name in IPL history. Struggling with cramps, Buttler showcased immense determination, reaching his second century of the season in 55 balls with a towering six off Varun Chakravarthy in the final over. Despite facing three dot balls thereafter, Buttler’s composed batting ensured Rajasthan’s triumph, maintaining their position atop the IPL table with six wins from seven matches.
The English stalwart’s century propelled him to the forefront of IPL centurions, surpassing Chris Gayle with seven centuries and trailing only behind Virat Kohli’s eight in the prestigious T20 tournament. Buttler’s innings was characterized by crucial partnerships, including a pivotal 50-run stand with Riyan Parag (34), a resilient 57-run partnership with Rovman Powell (26), and an unbeaten 38-run alliance with Avesh Khan (0 not out).
Despite Buttler’s brilliance, Kolkata Knight Riders’ Sunil Narine delivered a masterclass of his own, notching his maiden T20 century in a scintillating display of power-hitting. Narine’s blistering 109 off 56 deliveries propelled Kolkata to a formidable total of 223-6. His innings was adorned with remarkable partnerships, including an explosive 85-run alliance with Angkrish Raghuvanshi and a dynamic 51-run stand with Andre Russell.
Narine’s century, achieved in his 504th T20 match, catapulted him into the upper echelons of IPL batting charts, placing him among the top three run-scorers in the tournament. His remarkable achievement was met with jubilation as he jubilantly celebrated his milestone, culminating in a standing ovation from the Kolkata faithful.
Despite Narine’s heroics, Rajasthan’s relentless pursuit, fueled by Buttler’s brilliance, emerged triumphant in a thrilling encounter that will be etched in the annals of IPL history. The match exemplified the unparalleled excitement and drama that encapsulates the essence of cricket’s most prestigious T20 tournament.
