Sunil Narine

NEW DELHI: West Indies all-rounder Sunil Narine equaled an Indian Premier League record as he hit a whirlwind half-century off just 15 balls to lead Kolkata Knight Riders to a big win over struggling Royal Challengers Bangalore. Narine smashed a 17-ball 54 -- including six fours and four sixes-as Kolkata reached the 159-run target in 15.1 overs to win by six wickets late on Sunday. Narine and Australian Chris Lynn put together a 105-run opening partnership in the first six overs of Sunday's game. Lynn needed 22 balls to make his 50 at Bangalore's M Chinnaswamy Stadium. He was outdone by Narine who, despite being better known for his off-spin bowling, matched Yusuf Pathan's 15-ball half-ton for Kolkata in 2014.  "I'm surprised too. Lynn just said keep your eyes on the ball, keep focused and swing at it. I try to keep it simple," Narine said. "I'll hopefully get used to the expectations but it really was a team effort. Umesh's (Umesh Yadav) wickets early especially were key and I'm thankful for it," added Narine. Bangalore's batting again faltered with big-hitter Chris Gayle, who fell for a golden duck in his 100th IPL game, skipper Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers managing just 15 runs between them. - AFP