The sixth match of IPL 2025 brings Rajasthan Royals (RR) head-to-head with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Scheduled for March 26, this game holds significance for both teams as they look to bounce back from their opening defeats in the tournament.
KKR, the defending champions, had a disheartening start, losing to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at their home ground, Eden Gardens, by seven wickets. A day later, RR, the inaugural champions, faced a tough outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Chasing a mammoth 287, they fell short by 44 runs, marking a rough beginning to their IPL 2025 campaign.
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However, this match serves as a homecoming for Riyan Parag, RR’s stand-in captain, who is leading in the absence of Sanju Samson. Samson, recovering from finger surgery, is currently being used as an Impact Player. He made a notable contribution against SRH with a fluent 66 off 37 balls. Parag, who has a passionate fan base in Guwahati, will be eager to shine as a leader in front of his home crowd.
Here we decode the key player battles that can be on display:
#1 Sunil Narine vs. Maheesh Theekshana
KKR’s Sunil Narine showcased a glimpse of his destructive batting against RCB, scoring a quick 44 off 26 balls. His role at the top will be crucial, and RR will rely on Maheesh Theekshana to curb Narine’s attacking approach. Theekshana, who dismissed Abhishek Sharma early against SRH, will aim to replicate that success against the experienced Narine.
#2 Sanju Samson vs. Anrich Nortje
Despite RR’s loss, Samson impressed with his aggressive knock of 66. Known for his stylish batting, he will look to maintain his form. However, KKR’s Anrich Nortje, expected to feature in this match, will be a threat. Nortje’s raw pace and Samson’s struggle against short-pitched deliveries could lead to an intriguing battle.
#3 Dhruv Jurel vs. Varun Chakravarthy
Young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel’s blistering 70 off 35 balls against SRH caught attention. His clean hitting can trouble KKR’s bowlers, particularly Varun Chakravarthy, who had a tough outing against RCB. Chakravarthy will aim to regain his rhythm and target Jurel’s inexperience in pressure situations.
