Sports Desk
3 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist & Research Analysist
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured a commanding 80-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in an IPL match today. KKR posted a strong total of 200/6 in 20 overs, thanks to crucial contributions from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Venkatesh Iyer. Their bowlers then dominated, dismissing SRH for just 120 runs in 16.4 overs.
Despite losing early wickets, KKR built their innings steadily. Openers Quinton de Kock (1) and Sunil Narine (7) fell cheaply, leaving KKR struggling at 16/2. However, captain Ajinkya Rahane and young Angkrish Raghuvanshi steadied the ship with an 81-run partnership. Rahane scored 38, while Raghuvanshi impressed with a 50-run knock. Venkatesh Iyer took charge in the middle overs, smashing 60 runs. Rinku Singh provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 32 off 17 balls, pushing KKR to 200. SRH’s bowling unit saw Mohammed Shami, Pat Cummins, Zeeshan Ansari, Harshal Patel, and Kamindu Mendis each taking one wicket.
Chasing 201, SRH had a disastrous start as their top order collapsed. None of the first three batters managed to reach double digits. Heinrich Klaasen top-scored with 33, followed by Kamindu Mendis (27), N.K. Reddy (19), and Pat Cummins (14). Kolkata’s bowlers put on a stellar performance. Vaibhav Arora and Varun Chakravarthy picked up three wickets each, while Andre Russell took two. Harshit Rana and Sunil Narine chipped in with one wicket each, ensuring a comfortable win for KKR.
With this victory, KKR further strengthens its position in the IPL standings, while SRH faces a tough road ahead.