Kolkata Knight Riders endured a nightmare start in their IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, as captain Ajinkya Rahane was dismissed for a golden duck in the very first over on Friday, April 17. Opening the innings alongside Tim Seifert, Rahane returned to the top of the order after batting at No.3 in the previous game.
However, the move failed to deliver immediate results. Facing Mohammed Siraj with the new ball, Rahane attempted an aggressive shot against a full delivery outside off stump. The execution, though, went completely wrong.
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Looking to play across the line and take the aerial route, Rahane lost control of his bat swing, resulting in a mistimed effort. The ball ballooned into the air without any real distance, allowing Kagiso Rabada to settle under it and complete a simple catch inside the circle. It marked Rahane’s first duck in the IPL since the 2020 season, adding to KKR’s early concerns.
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Despite the early setback, Seifert showed positive intent, striking a crisp boundary early to set the tone. However, KKR’s troubles deepened soon after. Young batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who has been one of the few bright spots this season, failed to make an impact this time around.
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Raghuvanshi was dismissed for 8 in the following over, edging a sharp delivery from Rabada that clocked 146 kmph. The early double blow left KKR reeling at 21/2 inside the powerplay, putting immediate pressure on the middle order.
With both openers back in the pavilion, the responsibility shifted to the experienced overseas duo of Cameron Green and Seifert to stabilise the innings. Their task was clear—rebuild after the early collapse and ensure KKR don’t lose further ground in a crucial IPL 2026 encounter.
