KKR vs GT IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans bounced back in style with a dominant 39-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders in Match 39 of the IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens. Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front with a sublime 90 off 55 deliveries, while Sai Sudharsan’s composed 52 off 36 laid a solid foundation. Chasing a steep target of 199, KKR faltered under pressure and could only manage 159/8 in their 20 overs.
Captain Fantastic: Gill Anchors Titans’ Total
It was a special homecoming for Shubman Gill at Eden Gardens. Batting with elegance and authority, the GT skipper played a captain’s knock, hammering 6 fours and 4 sixes on his way to 90. He formed a fluent 120-run opening stand with Sai Sudharsan, who looked equally assured during his 52-run knock.
Gill’s innings was a perfect blend of composure and aggression. While the initial overs were cautious, he shifted gears post the 10th over, taking on KKR’s bowlers with ease, especially targeting the spinners.
Buttler Finishes with a Bang
After the openers set the platform, Jos Buttler played the finisher’s role to perfection. His unbeaten 41 off just 23 balls gave GT the final push as they posted a formidable 198/3 on the board. His knock included innovative shots and classic power hitting, ensuring GT didn’t lose momentum in the death overs.
KKR’s bowling lacked bite, with Vaibhav Arora (1/44) and Harshit Rana (1/45) proving expensive. Andre Russell picked up a solitary wicket but was underutilized, bowling just one over despite being economical.
KKR’s Chase Falters Despite Rahane’s Fight
In response, KKR lost early wickets and never looked in control of the chase. Veteran Ajinkya Rahane held the innings together with a fighting 50 off 36 balls, displaying grit and experience. However, the lack of support from the other end meant KKR struggled to keep up with the asking rate.
Young Angkrish Raghuvanshi impressed with an unbeaten 27 off 13 balls late in the innings, but the damage was already done. Andre Russell (21 off 15) showed glimpses of his firepower but couldn’t capitalize.
Gujarat’s bowling was disciplined and effective. Rashid Khan (2/25) was at his lethal best, while Prasidh Krishna’s early strikes (2/25) dismantled KKR’s top order. Ishant Sharma chipped in with a tight spell of 1/18 in two overs, applying pressure in the powerplay.
Key Moments That Defined the Match
- Gill-Sudharsan opening stand of 120 runs set the tone for GT’s big total.
- Jos Buttler’s cameo added late fireworks, propelling the total close to 200.
- Prasidh Krishna’s twin strikes early in the chase derailed KKR’s momentum.
- Rashid Khan’s control and turn kept the middle order in check.
Points Table Implications
With this win, Gujarat Titans have not only regained their rhythm but also climbed up the points table, bolstering their playoff hopes. Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, need to address their top-order inconsistencies quickly if they wish to stay in the hunt.
Match Summary:
Gujarat Titans: 198/3 (20)
- Shubman Gill: 90 (55)
- Sai Sudharsan: 52 (36)
- Jos Buttler: 41* (23)
- Andre Russell: 1/13 (1)
- Vaibhav Arora: 1/44 (4)
Kolkata Knight Riders: 159/8 (20)
- Ajinkya Rahane: 50 (36)
- Angkrish Raghuvanshi: 27* (13)
- Andre Russell: 21 (15)
- Prasidh Krishna: 2/25 (4)
- Rashid Khan: 2/25 (4)
Result: Gujarat Titans won by 39 runs
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Toss: KKR won the toss and opted to bowl
