Kolkata Knight Riders hosted Lucknow Super Giants in a pulsating IPL encounter at Eden Gardens on Thursday, but it was LSG who prevailed by 3 wickets in a 182-run chase. Mukul Chaudhary’s blistering 54 not out overshadowed Ayush Badoni’s match-defining 54, prompting Sunil Gavaskar to call out the oversight.
The cricket icon, during commentary on Star Sports, emphasized, ‘Everyone’s talking Mukul, but Badoni’s role can’t be ignored. His 34-ball fifty gave LSG belief when it mattered most.’ Gavaskar praised the 24-year-old’s all-round prowess: part-time bowler, excellent fielder, and impact player this season.
‘He struggled briefly against Narine but was masterful against quicks, placing shots everywhere,’ Gavaskar observed. Badoni’s dismissal right after his milestone was a scare, yet his innings bridged the gap for the finishers. With experience from leading Delhi domestically, Badoni embodies the ideal lower-order aggressor LSG craves.
In a tournament of superstars, such performances highlight emerging stars. LSG’s smart use of impact subs like Badoni adds unpredictability. As the points table tightens, this win boosts their momentum, with Gavaskar’s nod signaling Badoni’s rising stock.
