Match Highlights: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals
Quinton de Kock played a pivotal role in Kolkata Knight Riders’ commanding first win of the IPL 2025 season, delivering a powerful 97 not out against Rajasthan Royals. The match held in Guwahati saw KKR opt to field first, a strategy that paid off as they capped Rajasthan’s score at 151-9.
The duo of Moeen Ali and Varun Chakravarthy excelled in bowling, significantly constraining the Royals’ ability to build a higher score. De Kock shined in the chase, dominating with a dynamic 61-ball innings that featured eight fours and six sixes, leading Kolkata to reach their 152-run target comfortably with 15 balls remaining.
Key Performances
Despite losing his opening partner Moeen Ali early to a run-out, De Kock maintained his composure. After a brief innings by captain Ajinkya Rahane, De Kock found a reliable partner in Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who contributed 22 crucial runs, culminating in an unbeaten stand of 83 that decisively sealed the game for Kolkata.
De Kock’s stunning performance concluded with a six off Jofra Archer, marking a significant comeback for the team following their initial defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This victory set a positive tone as KKR aims to build on their success from the previous season.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals faced another setback with this being their second consecutive defeat early in the season.
Additional Match Insights
Kolkata’s bowling lineup proved formidable, with Vaibhav Arora knocking out Sanju Samson early in the game. Chakravarthy and Moeen, the latter stepping in for an unwell Sunil Narine, each took two wickets, intensifying the pressure on Rajasthan.
Rajasthan, struggling throughout, found a little solace in Dhruv Jurel’s knock of 33 runs which came too late to turn the tide. The batting side crumbled to 82-5 by the 11th over, failing to recover effectively.
IPL 2025 Points Table Update
Following their emphatic win, Kolkata Knight Riders have improved their standings in the IPL 2025 points table. Full details and stats continue to be updated as the tournament progresses.
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