Gujarat Lions vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2016, Match 51: Dwayne Smith’s 4 wickets and other highlights

Gujarat Lions (GL) defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 6 wickets in the all-important game for the qualification for playoffs of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2016. Both teams started the game with 14 points, but the win means GL are close to confirming their qualification, even with a game in hand. KKR, on the other hand, have another game, which promises to be a cracker of a contest. Nonetheless, having put into bat, KKR could only muster 124 from their 20 overs. A slightly bowler-friendly pitch along with a brilliant bowling spell from Dwayne Smith was the cause for KKR’s struggles. In their reply, GL lost wickets at regular intervals, but a crisp half-century from skipper Suresh Raina and a controlled 26-run knock by Aaron Finch guided them over the line. Let us have a look at the highlights from the game. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: Gujarat Lions vs Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2016, Match 51 at Kanpur

Gautam Gambhir gets run-out again: It seems there is some sort of curse on KKR skipper Gambhir. A miscommunication with partner Robin Uthappa resulted in his dismissal. And with that, he also got the unwanted record of  becoming the most run-out player in T20s.

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Dwayne Smith shines with the ball: Dr. Smith has caused a lot of destruction with the bat over the years. But today, he showed his other side of the game as he tore apart the KKR batting, scalping 4 wickets in his 4 overs. His spell was the key in keeping KKR’s onslaught at bay.

Suresh Raina becomes leading IPL run-scorer: Having witnessed Virat Kohli overtake him as the leading run-scorer in IPL cricket, Raina took his throne back with a match-winning half-century. Raina finally found his feat after having struggled somewhat in this season. And it was fitting that he scored the winning runs.

Aaron Finch gets out in an unlucky fashion: Coming at No.5, Finch played a very good knock, giving his skipper a good hand. But an unlucky collision with Raina ended his innings prematurely at 26. Still, his innings was a good one, considering the situation he came at.

(R Narayan is a reporter with CricketCountry, and is an ardent cricket and football enthusiast (big Manchester United fan). Having followed cricket since 2003, he likes high scoring matches as well as good fast bowling. His Twitter handle is @RNarayan24nov)