Growing in danger of a do-or-die situation in the IPL 2025 season, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the verge. But they have a golden chance to light the fire to their campaign as they host Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the iconic Eden Gardens. This is a rematch of a dramatic game from last week in Mullanpur, when Punjab defended just 111 and contrived to pull off a surprising win. KKR will want to forget the memory of that loss and make their season turn back around, having suffered defeat to PBKS and Gujarat Titans back-to-back.
Now seventh on the table with six points, KKR are going to need a strong winning streak to remain positive of making it to the playoffs. Some tough selection calls lie ahead for Shreyas Iyer’s side, as they know they have the talent to compete with the best. Questions over the opening combination were compounded by a lack of runs at the top, as both Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quinton de Kock have failed to score runs. In what could be a case even, there is a strong case to promote young Angkrish Raghuvanshi ahead of the out-of-form Venkatesh Iyer as the middle order continues to be under pressure.
Meanwhile, Punjab are in a relatively healthier position but cannot afford to be complacent. This win would further cement their push for a playoff berth, which they last accomplished in 2024. A loss, however, could see them involved in a congested middle of the park battle with teams like the in-form Mumbai Indians and RCB.
Also, for KKR, a lot of rest is on Shreyas Iyer to rediscover his form. Captain has always struggled for some time now, and is one player who is very important for Kolkata’s playoff push. The key contest would probably be between KKR’s hit-and-miss batting and PBKS’s revived bowling unit. Kolkata need to step up if they are to defend their crown, and now is their moment.
Eden Gardens is waiting for a massive evening.
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