Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders fell just 16 runs short in a nail-biting low-scoring encounter against Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Despite a disciplined bowling performance that saw Punjab skittled out for a modest 111, KKR failed to chase the target, handing Punjab a crucial win.

Harshit Rana led the bowling charge for KKR with a fine three-wicket haul, well supported by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, who picked up two wickets apiece. However, the disciplined bowling effort was undone by a disappointing batting display in a chase that seemed well within reach.