Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) delivered a stunning batting performance to stay in the playoff race, posting their highest-ever total against Gujarat Titans (GT) before sealing a 29-run victory at Eden Gardens.
Gujarat Titans (GT) had built a five-match winning run on surfaces that brought their bowlers into the contest and helped cover their batting shortcomings. At Eden Gardens, though, they ran into conditions that gave them nowhere to hide. On an excellent batting pitch, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) surged to 247 for 2, the highest score any side has managed against GT.
Allen Leads Explosive Batting Assault
The foundation of KKR’s massive 247 for 2 was laid by Finn Allen, who produced a breathtaking 93 off just 35 balls, smashing 10 sixes in a dominant display. His aggressive approach turned the momentum after a cautious start and completely flipped the contest in KKR’s favour.
Despite early movement for bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, Allen’s fearless strokeplay ensured KKR surged ahead rapidly.
Raghuvanshi and Green Finish the Job
After Allen’s departure, Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Cameron Green took complete control. The pair stitched together an unbeaten 108-run partnership, accelerating through the death overs with clean hitting and smart placement.
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Raghuvanshi’s 82* and Green’s 52* ensured KKR posted a record total against GT, capitalising on multiple dropped chances in the field.
GT Fall Short Despite Strong Effort
In response, GT started aggressively, racing to 42 without loss in just three overs. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler added a crucial 128-run partnership for the third wicket, both registering half-centuries.
However, the required rate proved too steep. Even with B Sai Sudharsan returning after retiring hurt, GT could not maintain the momentum and finished on 218 for 4.
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Narine Controls the Chase
Veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine played a key role with the ball, applying pressure during the middle overs and picking up crucial wickets to derail the chase. His tight spell ensured GT never fully recovered from the rising asking rate.
The victory keeps KKR firmly in the playoff race, while exposing GT’s vulnerabilities in high-scoring conditions. A combination of explosive batting and disciplined bowling proved decisive, as KKR produced one of their most complete performances of the season.
