In a high-octane clash at Eden Gardens, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) posted a formidable total of 206/4 against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the 53rd match of IPL 2025. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, KKR showcased a well-rounded batting performance, headlined by a fiery half-century from Andre Russell.
KKR got off to a cautious start, losing Sunil Narine early for 11 (9) in the second over. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who opened alongside Narine, played some attacking strokes to keep the scoreboard ticking. The Afghan wicketkeeper-batter smashed 35 off 25 balls, including 4 boundaries and a six, before falling to Maheesh Theekshana.
The momentum was carried forward by captain Ajinkya Rahane and youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi. Rahane scored a composed 30 off 24 deliveries, while Raghuvanshi impressed once again with a fluent 44 off 31 balls, peppered with five classy boundaries.
But it was Andre Russell who turned the game on its head with a breathtaking display of power-hitting in the death overs. The West Indian all-rounder bludgeoned 57* off just 25 balls, hammering 4 fours and 6 sixes at a staggering strike rate of 228. His late onslaught propelled KKR past the 200-run mark. He was well-supported by Rinku Singh, who contributed an explosive 19* off just 6 balls, including 2 towering sixes.
Despite some early control from the Royals bowlers, KKR’s acceleration in the final five overs proved decisive. Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers for RR, finishing with figures of 1/30 from his full quota. Riyan Parag (1/21 in 3 overs) also impressed with his off-spin, while Yudhvir Singh and Maheesh Theekshana chipped in with a wicket each.
Akhil Madhwal endured a forgettable outing, conceding 50 runs in just 3 overs at an economy of 16.67. Wanindu Hasaranga, despite going wicketless, was economical in parts but unable to stem the run flow in the final overs.
Fall of Wickets:
- 13/1 (Sunil Narine, 2.0 overs)
- 69/2 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 7.3 overs)
- 111/3 (Ajinkya Rahane, 12.4 overs)
- 172/4 (Angkrish Raghuvanshi, 18.1 overs)
With a target of 207, RR’s batting line-up faces a stern test ahead. All eyes will be on Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal as they prepare to chase down this massive total in what promises to be a thrilling second innings under the lights in Kolkata.
