In a thrilling encounter at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured a dramatic victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Wednesday, thanks to a sensational all-round display by Rinku Singh. The left-handed batter and part-time spinner etched his name in IPL history by becoming only the third player to achieve a unique double.
Rinku's All-Round Heroics
Rinku Singh smashed a quickfire 67 off just 34 balls, laced with five sixes and four boundaries, to propel KKR to a formidable total of 198 for 6. Later, with the ball, he picked up two crucial wickets, including the dangerous Marcus Stoinis, to dent LSG's chase. His all-round effort put him in an elite club alongside former KKR star Jacques Kallis and Rajasthan Royals' Riyan Parag.
Elite List: Kallis, Parag, and Now Rinku
The list comprises players who have scored a fifty and taken two or more wickets in the same IPL match. Kallis achieved this feat multiple times for KKR, while Parag did it for RR earlier this season. Rinku's performance was particularly special as it came under pressure, with KKR needing a strong finish after a middle-order collapse.
Match Summary
KKR, after being put in to bat, lost early wickets but Rinku's counterattacking innings, supported by Andre Russell's 28 off 15, took them to a competitive score. LSG, in reply, were restricted to 185 for 7, with Rinku's two wickets and a disciplined bowling performance from the hosts sealing a 13-run win.
The victory keeps KKR's playoff hopes alive, while LSG will rue missed opportunities. Rinku's emergence as a genuine all-rounder adds depth to KKR's lineup and gives fans plenty to cheer about.
