Kolkata Knight Riders suffered one of the most embarrassing defeats in IPL history. Batting first in the match played against Punjab Kings at Eden Garden, Kolkata, he scored 261 runs in 20 overs. After this it seemed that KKR would easily win the match, but it did not happen. Chasing the target, Punjab won by losing just 2 wickets in 18.4 overs. How did KKR lose after scoring a total of 261 runs? What are the three biggest reasons for KKR's defeat?
1- Not being able to take quick wickets
Chasing the target of 262 runs, the Punjab Kings team batted aggressively from the beginning, but still the Kolkata team could not take the initial wicket of Punjab. Punjab Kings' inability to take early wickets became a big problem for KKR. KKR took only 2 wickets of Punjab which included one run out. If you take 2-3 wickets in the powerplay while defending the target of 262 runs, then it becomes very difficult for the opposition team to chase such a big score.
2- Bowling section flop
Kolkata Knight Riders' bowling was very poor while defending the total score of 261 runs. There was no plan in the team's bowling. The main reason for KKR's defeat was not bowling as per plan. Except Sunil Narine, all the bowlers of the team were washed out. Narayan's 4 overs ended in the 15th over. Later one of his overs could have been saved.
3- Brilliant innings by Bairstow
Chasing the target, Jonny Bairstow scored 108* runs in 48 balls with the help of 8 fours and 9 sixes. Bairstow came to open and remained unbeaten till the end. KKR's inability to dismiss Bairstow made things difficult. Bairstow's explosive batting made it very easy for Punjab to chase the target.