As Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prepare to clash in IPL 2025, both teams find themselves in an unfamiliar position—struggling for form. The two IPL 2024 finalists have endured a rough start this season, managing just one win each from their opening three matches. With KKR sitting at the bottom of the points table and SRH only marginally better, this showdown at Eden Gardens becomes a battle for redemption.
KKR’s woes were evident in their last outing against Mumbai Indians, where their batting crumbled under the relentless pressure of Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar in the powerplay. However, it was MI’s debutant, Ashwani Kumar, who stole the limelight, registering the best bowling figures by an Indian on IPL debut.
KKR managed a paltry 116, a target Mumbai chased down with ease, thanks to Ryan Rickelton’s composed fifty and Suryakumar Yadav’s finishing touch. The defeat left Kolkata reeling at the bottom, desperate for a turnaround. Sunrisers Hyderabad, too, are coming off a humbling loss against Delhi Capitals, where Mitchell Starc wreaked havoc with the ball.
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The Australian speedster tore through SRH’s top order, dismantling their power-packed lineup in the powerplay. SRH’s only resistance came from an uncapped talent, Aniket Verma, who played a valiant knock of 74. However, Kuldeep Yadav cleaned up the lower middle order, and Starc returned to claim a five-wicket haul. Faf du Plessis’ blistering half-century ensured an easy chase for Delhi, handing SRH their second loss of the season.
Three Key Battles to Watch in KKR vs SRH
#1 Quinton de Kock vs Mohammed Shami
Both players are searching for form, making this an intriguing contest. Quinton de Kock strikes at 150 against Shami in the IPL, but the Indian pacer has dismissed him three times, restricting his average to just 18. If Mohammed Shami can get the better of de Kock early, SRH could take early control.
#2 Heinrich Klaasen vs Varun Chakravarthy
KKR’s mystery spinner has been crucial in recent seasons, but Heinrich Klaasen has dominated spin. In 20 deliveries, he has hammered 35 runs off Varun Chakravarthy at a strike rate of 175, falling just once. Can Chakravarthy turn the tables, or will Klaasen continue his aggressive assault?
#3 Sunil Narine vs Ishan Kishan
Ishan Kishan is known for attacking spinners in the powerplay, but Sunil Narine’s experience and variations could pose a tough challenge. If Narine can outfox Kishan early, SRH’s aggressive start could take a serious hit.
