CSK vs PBKS: Punjab Kings disrespected by Aakash Chopra; says no one ever thought they could chase

Former KKR batter Aakash Chopra is unable to understand what is happening in IPL 2024 after seeing the Punjab Kings chase down IPL history's biggest-ever target of 262. 

The madness and the run-mania unfolded last night in Kolkata Knight Riders' home ground at the Eden Gardens. The visiting Punjab Kings had entered this match after a run of 4 defeats on the trot against Hyderabad, Rajasthan, Mumbai, and Gujarat.

They were also searching for their first victory against KKR since 2018 and the way they earned the win yesterday was just simply incredible. 

Aakash Chopra says he is stunned by Punjab's efforts like everyone else 

While speaking in his latest YouTube video, Aakash Chopra first asked what on Earth is happening in the 2024 edition of IPL.

He claimed that he had his jaw dropped after witnessing Punjab's historic run-chase from the commentary box. This run chase will go down in the history books as the visitors pulled off T20 cricket's biggest-ever chase. 

The Knight Riders had posted 261 on the board in their 1st innings through knocks from Salt (75 off 73), Narine (71 off 32), Iyer (39 off 23), Russell (24 off 12) and Shreyas Iyer (28 off 10).

Every 250+ total in 1st innings that was scored previously in the season had remained safe but yesterday, on that flat batting surface, Punjab chased the target down without even playing the last ball. 

8 balls were remaining in the 2nd innings when Shashank Singh and Jonny Bairstow guided Punjab towards that massive total.

While Shashank smacked 68 off just 28, the night remained for Bairstow, who became man of the match for his 108 off 48. That stunning knock blew Aakash Chopra away who had felt that Punjab wouldn't be able to chase him down.    

"Will someone explain what is happening in this tournament? Kolkata made 261 runs. Eight balls and eight wickets were left and Punjab Kings defeated them. They beat Kolkata in Kolkata for the first time since 2018. The Punjab Kings need to be applauded. Did anyone ever think that this was possible? We are all stunned." - Aakash Chopra said in his latest YT video.

An unsung hero for the Punjab Kings who did not receive many plaudits was Prabhsimran Singh. The right-hand batter was the one to initiate Punjab's emphatic response but he was quite unlucky to get run-out after scoring 50 off 20.

Aakash Chopra claims a 300 total in IPL is not far away 

Aakash Chopra went on to further claim that the imagination of a 300 total is not far off from becoming a reality. The 38-year-old observed that there was no dew whatsoever at the Eden Gardens and despite that, if 260 is being chased down, then we will be seeing a total of 300 in IPL 2025 if not this season.  

"There was no dew and still if so many runs are being scored easily, 300 is not far. They will be scored for sure, if not this year, then next year. I am absolutely convinced." - Chopra concluded.