Mukul Choudhary, who considers legendary wicketkeeper MS Dhoni as his idol, produced an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls as Lucknow Super Giants stunned Kolkata Knight Riders to win the last match at the Eden Gardens. The 21-year-old wicketkeeper-palter anchored the chase of 182 with composure to turn the game around after LSG were in trouble.
KKR vs LSG: MAIN | SCORECARD
KKR were in control of the game for a large part of the contest. However, Mukul shifted the momentum with a calculated innings under pressure and finished the job with poise and control in the final overs. At 128 for 7 in 16 overs, with 54 still needed, the game looked firmly in KKR’s hands. LSG have already lost key batsmen including Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni. However, Mukul paced the chase smartly, picking his moments and ensuring that the required rate remained within reach.
His innings justified the faith shown in him by the team management. LSG head coach Justin Langer has previously backed Mukul’s potential as a finisher, while former Australia cricketer Tom Moody spoke of his power-hitting ability and reason for the franchise’s interest. Mukul’s knock against KKR was a timely reminder of that promise.
KKR couldn’t close out the game despite being in a commanding position, while LSG continued to build a reputation for finishing tight chases in the final overs.
WHO IS MUKUL CHOUDHARY?
Mukul Choudhary, a goalkeeper from Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan, has made it through strong domestic performances and the continued support of his family. His father, Dalip Kumar Choudhary, played a key role in his early journey and supported his ambitions despite his limited background in their hometown.
After establishing financial stability through his work as a teacher and later in real estate and hospitality, his father ensured Mukul had access to proper training by enrolling him in the SBS Cricket Academy in Sikar. Mukul later moved to Jaipur to train at the Aravali Cricket Academy and his family moved in to support his development.
He didn’t start as a goalkeeper. Mukul started out as a medium fast bowler before taking wicket during the match due to the demands of the team. Inspired by MS Dhoni, he quickly adapted and went on to make the role his own.
His breakthrough came in the 2025 Men’s U-23 State A Trophy, where he scored 617 runs at an average of 103 and a strike rate of 142, including back-to-back centuries. His power-play stood out, with 34 sixes in the tournament, the most of any batsman.
This performance earned him a place in the Rajasthan team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In the 2025-26 edition, he scored 173 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 199, further enhancing his credentials as a finisher.
Mukul has also featured in List A cricket, although he is yet to make a significant impact on the format.
He was signed by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 2.6 crore in the 2026 IPL auction following interest from several franchises. His innings against KKR adds to his growing reputation as a finisher and highlights his ability to deliver under pressure at the highest level.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
09 Apr 2026 23:43 IST
