Punjab Kings (PBKS) pulled off one of the most remarkable turnarounds in IPL history by defending a modest total of 111 runs against the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at Mullanpur. Despite being bowled out in just 15.3 overs, the home side refused to back down. Their batting lineup crumbled early, with big names like Glenn Maxwell, Shreyas Iyer, and debutant Josh Inglis failing to deliver. KKR looked firmly in control, especially after a steadying partnership between Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi.

The tide turned when Yuzvendra Chahal entered the attack with KKR well placed at 62/2 and a 98%-win probability. The veteran spinner dismantled the middle order with a fiery spell, claiming four wickets in just three overs. Chahal first dismissed Rahane, who surprisingly chose not to review his decision, and then took out Raghuvanshi, Rinku Singh, and Ramandeep Singh, sparking a collapse of six wickets in just over five overs. His brilliance not only rattled the KKR camp but also reignited PBKS's fighting spirit in front of their home crowd.

While Andre Russell attempted a counterattack by smashing 16 runs off one of Chahal's overs, Marco Jansen put the final nail in the coffin by dismissing the West Indian powerhouse. The incredible effort led PBKS to the lowest successful defence in IPL history. Overcome with joy, co-owner Preity Zinta rushed onto the field and shared an emotional hug with Chahal. She later presented him with the Player of the Match award, as the team celebrated a victory that will be etched in IPL folklore for years to come.

Preity Zinta presented the POTM award to Yuzi Chahal. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9qcvBYtHXY

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 15, 2025

Watch the video here;

When Preity Zinta hugged Chahal, somewhere Dhanshree's WiFi suddenly stopped working. Coincidence? I think not. pic.twitter.com/MnNYolIJbt

— Anita Singh (@Anitasingh4444) April 16, 2025

 

Also Read: 'Udta hua gaya Punjab' - Fans react as Punjab Kings bundled out for 111 against KKR in IPL 2025

We wanted to be positive: Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal credited the Punjab Kings' dramatic win to a collective team effort and a positive mindset despite defending a low total. He said their plan was to take early wickets in the powerplay, especially after noticing the pitch offering turn. Chahal mentioned he stayed confident even after a costly previous outing and focused on varying his pace to trouble batters. He emphasized the importance of attacking with fewer runs on the board and believed in his ability to take wickets. Winning such a game, he said, boosts team morale, and he was proud to earn his first Player of the Match award for PBKS.

"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. We saw their spinners turn it and it helped us. When I bowled the first ball, it turned, Shreyas asked me if I wanted a slip, we wanted to be attacking as we had less runs and the only way we could win was by taking wickets. In the last game I conceded 56 for 4 overs, but I had full confidence and backed myself and my abilities. I always have the mindset of how to get the batters out, I varied my pace and if they have to hit, they will have to make an effort. When you win such a game, the team's morale will be high. It's my first man of the match for Punjab, I'm confident if I keep backing my skills and believe in myself, then I will get success," Chahal said at the post-match interview.