KXIP vs KKR: Shubman Gill creates history, claims unique record with fifty against Kings XI Punjab

Shubman Gill became the first player under 20 years of age to bag four fifty-plus scores in the IPL. Four other teenagers have scored three fifties in the tournament but Gill became the first one to slam four.

Shubman Gill has impressed everyone with his performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) and on Friday, he was once again the top performer for Kolkata Knight Riders as they defeated Kings XI Punjab.

Kolkata Knight Riders Shubman Gill raises his bat to celebrate scoring fifty runs.(AP)

Thanks to his 49-ball-65, Gill became the first player under 20 years of age to bag four fifty-plus scores in the IPL. Four other teenagers have scored three fifties in the tournament but Gill became the first one to slam four.

Gill showed maturity beyond years as Kolkata Knight Riders knocked out Kings XI Punjab by seven wickets.

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Chasing a target of 184, the 19-year-old Gill showed his range on his ‘home turf’ with an attractive 65 not out off 49 balls balls, anchoring the chase after Chris Lynn (46 off 22 balls) set the pace with some big hits in the Powerplay.

Not only did KKR reach the target in 18 overs but they also improved the net run-rate as they now have 12 points with a must-win away game against Mumbai Indians left.

The opening duo added 62 in 6 overs before Lynn was dismissed havingh hit five fours and two sixes.

 

Gill’s batting was a treat for the eyes as he literally toyed with Ravichandran Ashwin hitting him for 18 runs in an over. There was a six over long on where he came down the track and another slog sweep behind square.

The half-century came with a deft late cut which prompted his happy father to break into a bhangra.

“It feels great, my first MoM at my home ground. Can’t get better than this. It was important to build partnership. I was striking it at 80-100 but the run-rate was still going around 9-10, so that’s when I decided I had to stay in there. Even some relatives from my village came to watch so it’s great to play in front of everyone. We have one more match to go, and it would be very nice if we can win that and make it into the play-offs,” he said after the match.

(With agency inputs)