KKR Obliterates RR with a Crushing 8-Wicket Triumph!

IPL Day 5 Highlights: KKR Obliterates RR with a Crushing 8-Wicket Triumph! Riyan Parag, RR (On the Left) and Ajinkya Rahane, KKR (On the Right)

A Commanding Performance by KKR in Guwahati

The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati hosted contest between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on 26th March, 2025. With a well-executed bowling strategy and a masterclass from Quinton de Kock, KKR secured an 8-wicket victory. They comfortably chased down RR’s total of 151/9 in just 17.3 overs. De Kock’s unbeaten 97 stole the show.

RR’s Struggle with the Bat

After winning the toss, KKR opted to bowl first and the decision paid off handsomely. RR’s innings never gained momentum. Their batters struggled against KKR’s fiery bowling spells.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, scoring 29 runs off 24 balls. But his innings ended when Harshit Rana dismissed him off Moeen Ali’s delivery. Captain Riyan Parag showed intent with a quickfire 25 off 15 balls, clearing the ropes three times, but failed, falling to Varun Chakaravarthy.

Dhruv Jurel provided some stability in the middle order, contributing 33 off 28 balls. However, the lack of a partnership hurt RR, as wickets kept falling. While extras accounted for four runs, with KKR’s bowling attack it kept things tight.

Varun Chakaravarthy really stood out, taking two wickets in four overs while maintaining an economy of 4.20. Using a mix of pace variations and spin worked effectively, restricting RR to a below total of 151/9.

Quinton de Kock’s Match-Winning Knock

Chasing 152, KKR’s opening order made it easy of the target. Quinton de Kock was in form, playing a unbeaten knock of 97 off just 61 balls. His innings included eight boundaries and six sixes, demonstrating complete control over the chase.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi played a supporting role and remaining unbeaten on 22 off 17 balls. While he rotated the strike efficiently, it was de Kock who dominated the bowlers, ensuring a successful chase. RR’s bowlers struggled to make an impact,however with KKR it was comfortable reaching 153/2 in 17.3 overs.

Extras played a significant role, contributing 11 runs to KKR’s total, including nine wides. RR’s most economical bowler, Sandeep Sharma, remained wicketless, underlining the team’s struggles with the ball.

Pitch and Ground Conditions

The pitch at Barsapara Cricket Stadium proved challenging for batters early on, as the surface was slightly dry with minimal grass cover. The square boundaries measured 64m, while the straight boundary was of 76m, favoring well-timed play. Spinners found assistance on the surface and change of pace worked well for seamers. As expected, the wicket slowed down as the game progressed. But with dew likely to set in, chasing remained the favorable option.

Despite this being an away game for KKR, the conditions suited them well. History at the venue showed results with teams batting first winning two of the three previous IPL matches played here. However, KKR’s execution nullified any advantage for RR.

Conclusion

Quinton de Kock’s spectacular 97* guided his team to victory, while RR’s batting lineup failed to counter KKR’s bowling attack. With this win, KKR, however, strengthened their position in the tournament.

Earlier Matches :-  GT vs PBKS  |   DC vs LSG