Guwahati, March 27, 2025 – Quinton de Kock delivered a masterclass in controlled aggression, remaining unbeaten on 97 to guide Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a comfortable eight-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their IPL 2025 clash at Barsapara Stadium.
KKR’s Clinical Chase
Chasing a modest 152, KKR lost Moeen Ali (5) and Ajinkya Rahane (18) early, but De Kock held the innings together, forging a match-winning 83-run stand with young Angkrish Raghuvanshi (22 off 17 balls). KKR sealed the chase in 17.3 overs, registering their first win of the season.
De Kock’s 61-ball innings featured eight fours and six sixes, showcasing his ability to rotate strike and accelerate when needed. He reached his half-century in 35 balls, dispatching Wanindu Hasaranga for a towering six over long-on. He later took on Jofra Archer, smashing him for a four and two sixes in the 18th over to finish the chase in style.
RR Struggle on a Tacky Wicket
Batting first, RR managed 151/9, with their innings faltering after a strong 54/1 start. Yashasvi Jaiswal (29 off 24) and Riyan Parag (25 off 15) provided early momentum, but KKR’s spin attack turned the game.
Varun Chakravarthy (2/17) and Moeen Ali (2/23) triggered a collapse, dismissing Parag and Samson (13 off 11) in quick succession. Vaibhav Arora (2/33) and Harshit Rana (2/36) ensured RR never recovered, with Shimron Hetmyer (7) and Dhruv Jurel (33 off 28) falling at crucial moments.
A late cameo from Jofra Archer (16 off 7) pushed RR past 150, but it proved insufficient against KKR’s batting firepower.
Tactical Errors Cost Royals
RR’s bowling strategy came under scrutiny, particularly the late introduction of Jofra Archer in the 18th over, when KKR needed just 17 off 18 balls. Hasaranga, who had dismissed De Kock twice before, failed to trouble him this time.
With this victory, KKR bounced back strongly, while RR will need to reassess their tactics moving forward.
