By Chirag - Apr 26, 2025 10:18 AM
The Eden Gardens in Kolkata is all set to host another electrifying Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 encounter as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Saturday, April 26. The last time these two teams faced off earlier this season, fans were treated to an unexpected low-scoring thriller that saw Punjab pull off a sensational upset.
In that match, KKR’s bowling unit dismantled PBKS for just 111 runs in 15.3 overs. However, in a remarkable turn of events, Punjab’s bowlers delivered a stunning performance of their own, dismissing Kolkata for just 95 and clinching a memorable 16-run victory. The defending champions, KKR, will be keen to reverse the outcome and settle the score this time, while PBKS will take heart from that historic victory.
Heading into this game, Punjab Kings hold a slight edge with five wins from eight matches. KKR, meanwhile, have struggled for consistency, securing only three victories in their eight outings.
As the two teams gear up for another intense showdown, here are three players who could potentially make the biggest impact with the bat in today’s clash:
In KKR's final match against Gujarat Titans, Afghan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz made his season debut. Though he managed only a single run off four balls, his past performances for the franchise give reason for optimism.
Gurbaz is accustomed to the conditions at Eden Gardens, having played for KKR in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. His experience in global T20 leagues adds to his value as a dynamic top-order batter. Across 212 T20 matches, he has scored 5055 runs at an average of 24.65, including two centuries and 31 fifties, at a blistering strike rate of 146.22. If he finds his rhythm, Gurbaz could prove to be a key player today.
Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer started the tournament on a high note but has seen a dip in form over his last three innings, scoring just 0, 7, and 6. Despite this lean patch, Iyer remains PBKS’s top run-getter with 263 runs from eight matches at an impressive average of 43.83 and a fiery strike rate of 185.21, including three fifties.
Remarkably, Iyer captained KKR and guided them to an IPL championship the season before. With his return to Eden Gardens, he will be motivated to perform against his former side and break his recent string of low scores.
Leading from the front, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane is enjoying a fine run of form this season. In the previous game against Gujarat Titans, he struck a composed 50 off 36 balls, laced with five boundaries and a six, at a strike rate nearing 139.
Rahane currently tops the run charts for KKR this season with 271 runs in eight games, averaging 38.71 and striking at 146.48. With three half-centuries already to his name, Rahane’s steady presence at number three will be crucial if Kolkata hopes to bounce back and reignite their playoff hopes.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Who Could Take Most Wickets in KKR vs PBKS Match?
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