KKR vs GT Match Report: Allen, Raghuvanshi Shine in 29-Run Victory at Eden Gardens
Kolkata Knight Riders 247 for 2 (Allen 93, Raghuvanshi 82*, Green 52*) beat Gujarat Titans 218 for 4 (Gill 85, Buttler 57, Sai Sudharsan 53*, Narine 2-29) by 29 runs
KKR’s Batting Blitzkrieg Ends GT’s Winning Streak
After five consecutive victories built on dominant bowling performances, Gujarat Titans finally met their match at Eden Gardens — a KKR side unleashed under ideal batting conditions. Kolkata Knight Riders posted a mammoth 247 for 2, the highest total ever scored against GT in IPL history, and marched to a commanding 29-run win.
Finn Allen Ignites the Charge
It was Finn Allen who lit the fuse. The Kiwi opener exploded from the outset, clobbering 10 sixes in just 35 balls en route to a blistering 93. His fireworks laid the foundation for what would become one of KKR’s most complete batting performances of the season.
Despite GT dropping four relatively straightforward catches — two of them off Allen — Kolkata did not let the reprieves slow their momentum. Angkrish Raghuvanshi, continuing his impressive debut season, played with poise beyond his years, finishing unbeaten on 82*. Cameron Green provided the late surge with a composed 52*, ensuring the Titans’ bowlers were kept under relentless pressure.
GT’s Chase Falls Short Despite Bright Starts
Gujarat Titans knew they were facing a herculean task. The target of 248 was 44 runs higher than the biggest successful chase in their history. Still, they began aggressively, racing to 42 without loss in the first three overs, thanks largely to B Sai Sudharsan’s early intent.
However, Sai’s knock was interrupted when he took a painful blow to the elbow and retired hurt. Though he returned in the 17th over, the damage had already been done. By then, GT needed 71 runs from just 22 balls — a near-impossible equation.
Gill and Buttler Fight, But It’s Not Enough
Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler kept hopes alive with a crucial 128-run partnership for the third wicket. Gill anchored the innings with an 85, while Buttler supported with a quickfire 57. Their stand briefly made the chase seem plausible, but the early over-rate pressure and scoring lull during Sai’s absence proved fatal.
Even with experienced batters at the crease, the asking rate spiraled out of control. Sunil Narine’s economical 2 for 29 further tightened the screws, and GT finished at 218 for 4 — well short of the target but not without dignity.
A Substitution With Mixed Outcomes
One intriguing subplot unfolded at the change of innings. Finn Allen, having delivered one of the innings of the season, was subbed out under the Impact Player rule. In came Matheesha Pathirana, making his season debut. However, the Sri Lankan pacer bowled just 1.2 overs before leaving the field with a hamstring issue — a concern for KKR as the tournament progresses.
While the win lifts KKR’s spirits, Pathirana’s injury looms as a potential setback. For now, though, the focus remains on a dominant batting performance that reminded the league of their firepower.
Final Word
Kolkata Knight Riders didn’t just beat Gujarat Titans — they outclassed them. With Allen, Raghuvanshi, and Green firing in unison, and the bowling unit holding firm under pressure, KKR signaled they’re far from done in this season’s race. For GT, the bubble has burst — but their fight remains intact.
More to follow…
