Kolkata Knight Riders held their nerve in a low-scoring contest that produced the first Super Over of IPL 2026, defeating Lucknow Super Giants after the scores were tied at the end of regulation play. KKR posted 155 batting first, and LSG matched the total in the final over to push the match into a dramatic finish.
Top-Order Struggles and Controversy Stall KKR
KKR’s issues at the top of the order continued, with frequent changes failing to deliver results. Finn Allen was left out after limited opportunities, while Sunil Narine was once again moved down the order. Tim Seifert opened alongside captain Ajinkya Rahane, who struggled again, scoring 10 off 15 balls following consecutive ducks in earlier matches.
The innings also featured a controversial moment when Angkrish Raghuvanshi was given out for obstructing the field after changing direction mid-run and getting in the way of a throw, a decision that left the KKR camp frustrated.
KKR were unable to build momentum early and managed just 31 runs in the powerplay.
Mohsin Khan Stars with Five-Wicket Haul
Lucknow’s Mohsin Khan, playing only his fourth match since returning from a long injury break, produced a standout spell. Using variations effectively and maintaining tight lines, he claimed the first five-wicket haul of IPL 2026.
More Read
He removed Rahane, Seifert, Cameron Green, Rovman Powell and Anukul Roy, keeping KKR under pressure throughout and restricting their scoring despite a late surge.
Rinku Singh Anchors Recovery
Amid the top-order collapse, Rinku Singh played a crucial role in rebuilding the innings. Adjusting to the match situation, he balanced caution with attacking strokes to keep the scoreboard moving.
His innings included seven fours and five sixes, with a strong finish at the death. A sequence of 4, 4, 6 against Mohammad Shami in the 19th over shifted the momentum, and he followed it up with four consecutive sixes in Digvesh Rathi’s final over to lift KKR to 155.
More Read
LSG Falter Before Late Fightback
In pursuit of 155, LSG struggled for consistency, continuing their uneven form at home. Captain Rishabh Pant top-scored with 42 off 38 balls but lacked significant support from the rest of the batting line-up.
KKR’s bowlers maintained discipline throughout. Sunil Narine removed the set Pant, while Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Nicholas Pooran with a well-executed delivery. The wickets were shared among the bowlers, reflecting a collective effort.
LSG mounted a late challenge, with Himmat Singh striking consecutive boundaries and Karthik Tyagi conceding two no-balls, but KKR responded under pressure. A sharp catch from Rinku Singh proved pivotal in regaining control.
However, the contest took another turn when Mohammad Shami hit a six off the final ball of the innings to level the scores and force a Super Over.
Narine and Rinku Finish the Job
In the Super Over, KKR executed their plans flawlessly. Narine delivered a decisive over, dismissing Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram while conceding just one run.
Rinku continued his impact in the field with his fifth catch of the match before sealing the victory with the winning run in the Super Over, completing a standout all-round performance in a tense encounter.
