In a high-octane encounter of IPL 2026, Gujarat Titans (GT) clinched a thrilling four-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the final over, thanks to stellar performances from Jason Holder and Sai Sundar. The match, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, saw GT chase down a challenging target of 189 runs with three balls to spare.
Punjab Kings Innings
Batting first, PBKS posted a competitive total of 188 for 5 in their 20 overs. Opener Shikhar Dhawan anchored the innings with a well-compiled 67 off 48 balls, while Liam Livingstone provided the fireworks with a blistering 54 off 29 balls, including four sixes. For GT, the bowling attack was led by Rashid Khan, who took 2 for 32, and Mohammed Shami, who picked up 1 for 35.
Gujarat Titans' Chase
In response, GT got off to a solid start with openers Shubman Gill (42) and Wriddhiman Saha (28) adding 68 runs for the first wicket. However, a middle-order collapse saw GT slip to 132 for 5 in the 15th over. It was then that Jason Holder and Sai Sundar stitched together a match-winning partnership of 57 runs off just 32 balls. Holder remained unbeaten on 48 off 28 balls, while Sundar smashed 37 off 19 balls, including three sixes. The duo's aggressive batting took GT past the finish line with three balls to spare.
Key Performances
- Jason Holder: The West Indian all-rounder played a crucial knock, scoring 48 not out and also contributed with the ball, taking 1 for 28.
- Sai Sundar: The young Indian batter showcased his talent with a quickfire 37, turning the game in GT's favor.
- Rashid Khan: The Afghan spinner was economical and picked up two key wickets.
Post-Match Reactions
GT captain Shubman Gill praised his team's resilience, saying, 'It was a great team effort. Holder and Sundar showed great composure under pressure.' PBKS skipper Sam Curran rued the missed opportunities but lauded the fight shown by his side. The win propelled GT to the top of the points table, while PBKS remained in the middle of the pack.
The match was a testament to the excitement that IPL brings, with momentum swinging both ways until the very end. Fans were treated to a spectacle of power-hitting and strategic bowling, making it one of the most memorable games of the season.
