Mukul Choudhary's Heroics: LSG Stuns KKR with Last-Over Blitz!

Top Summary

• What happened: Mukul Choudhary smashed a 27-ball 57, including seven sixes, to win the match for Lucknow Super Giants against Kolkata Knight Riders in the final over.
• Why it matters: Choudhary's performance highlights the emergence of a new talent and LSG's ability to perform under pressure.
• What changes for people: LSG's win impacts the IPL standings and provides a morale boost for the team and its fans.
• Who is affected: Mukul Choudhary, Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL fans.

A Star is Born at Eden Gardens

Mukul Choudhary, a 21-year-old cricketer from Jhunjhunu, became an overnight sensation with his match-winning innings against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. His fearless hitting and calm demeanor under pressure secured a remarkable victory for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Choudhary's face reflected pure joy as he scored the winning runs. He held his nerve against Vaibhav Arora's yorkers in the final over, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike.

The Making of a Power Hitter

Choudhary's success is not just luck. It's the result of rigorous preparation and dedication. Long before his IPL heroics, he had already showcased his six-hitting prowess, once smashing an incredible 36 sixes in a single innings.

Training in Sikar (Jhunjhunu) on black soil, Choudhary faced a challenge adjusting to red-soil wickets. He sought guidance from his Under-23 batting coach, Chandrapal Singh, and traveled nearly 500 km by bus to Udaipur and Nathdwara to practice on red-soil pitches.

 

"Mukul is extremely hardworking... He had to cover long distances - it’s not easy to travel 500 km by bus, play a match, stay overnight, and then return. He did this almost three times a week," Chandrapal told TimesofIndia.com.

 

Domestic Dominance and IPL Dream

Mukul Choudhary's impressive run in domestic cricket paved the way for his IPL debut. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025–26, he scored 173 runs in five innings at a striking rate of 198.85. His performance earned him an IPL contract with LSG, who picked him up for Rs 2.60 crore at the IPL 2026 auction.

For Choudhary, clearing the ropes with ease is a skill honed over years of practice.

"I have practised that shot since childhood... I also practise hitting 100–150 sixes every day," Mukul said.

 

Team Player First

LSG captain Rishabh Pant was visibly relieved and delighted after Choudhary's match-winning knock. Chandrapal emphasized Choudhary's team-first attitude:

"In every situation, he would ask, 'Sir, how can I help the team win?' That attitude has made him special..."

 

Chandrapal also compared Choudhary to power hitters like Russell and Pollard, noting his muscular build and unique mindset.

Chasing Dhoni's Legacy

One of Choudhary's seven sixes against KKR was a Dhoni-esque helicopter shot, leaving the crowd and the LSG dugout stunned. He idolizes MS Dhoni and aims to emulate his finishing skills.

 

"I always look up to MS Dhoni because I am also a finisher... I want to be like him and finish off matches and help my team win," Mukul said.

 

Upcoming Matches

Lucknow Super Giants will face Chennai Super Kings on May 10. Before that they take on Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, and once again Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Here is the schedule:

• Gujarat Titans: Sunday (date not specified)
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru: April 15
• Punjab Kings: April 19
• Rajasthan Royals: April 22
• Kolkata Knight Riders: April 26
• Mumbai Indians: May 4
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru: May 7

What to Watch Next

Can Mukul Choudhary maintain his form and become a consistent match-winner for LSG? The upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings on May 10 will be particularly interesting, as Choudhary will have the opportunity to meet his idol, MS Dhoni.