By Chirag - May 07, 2025 11:59 AM
In a pivotal IPL 2025 match, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Kolkata's famed Eden Gardens on Wednesday, May 7. This match serves as the reverse fixture of their previous meeting in Chennai, where KKR dominated the game and cruised to an eight-wicket victory. On that occasion, the Kolkata-based franchise bowled CSK out for a mere 103 and chased the target in just 10.1 overs, marking a comprehensive performance.
Heading into this encounter, KKR find themselves in the middle of the playoff battle. With five wins and five losses from 11 matches, they sit sixth on the points table with 11 points to their name. Every match hereon is a virtual knockout as they look to seal a spot in the top four.
In contrast, CSK’s campaign has spiraled downward. The defending champions were the first side to be eliminated from playoff contention this season, having managed only two wins from 11 games. Despite the disappointment, the five-time IPL champions will look to spoil Kolkata’s party and reclaim some pride with a strong showing.
With the stage set for an intense face-off, here’s a look at three bowlers who could be the top wicket-takers in today’s high-stakes clash:
Image Source: IPL-X
Khaleel Ahmed, a left-arm seamer, has been one of CSK's few bright spots in an otherwise dismal season. Despite a forgettable outing in the previous game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru—where he leaked 65 runs in just three overs—Khaleel remains CSK's second-highest wicket-taker this season.
At an average of 27.21, he has claimed 14 wickets in 11 games. Though his economy rate of 9.85 is on the higher side, his knack for breakthroughs makes him a vital cog in the CSK bowling unit.
The conditions at Eden Gardens could assist Khaleel early on, especially with the new ball. He’ll be keen to make an impact and redeem himself after his last performance.
Image Source: IPL-X
A proven performer for KKR, Sunil Narine brings unmatched experience and consistency to the table. Though he went wicketless in his last outing against Rajasthan Royals, Narine maintained control, conceding just 27 runs in his four-over spell.
Narine has taken 10 wickets in 10 games so far in the 2025 season, keeping up a solid economy rate of 7.59. When these teams clashed earlier in Chennai, the West Indian spinner delivered a match-defining performance with figures of 3/13, stifling CSK’s batting lineup.
With the home advantage and a do-or-die scenario for KKR, Narine will be pivotal in choking the opposition during the middle overs.
Image Source: IPL-X
Varun Chakaravarthy, the spin leader for KKR, has been playing quite well this season. With 15 wickets from 11 games, he leads the bowling charts for Kolkata. His average of 20.73 and economy of 7.23 highlight both his wicket-taking ability and control.
In the previous game against Rajasthan Royals, Varun continued his impressive run with two wickets while giving away 32 runs. He contributed significantly to the preceding game against CSK as well, returning numbers of 2/22.
At Eden Gardens, where spin tends to play a crucial role, Varun will once again be central to KKR’s plans. Alongside Narine, he forms a potent spin duo that could dismantle CSK’s batting once again.
As KKR aim to stay in the playoff race and CSK seek to finish their season with dignity, bowlers will have a significant say in the outcome of this match. Keep an eye on Khaleel Ahmed, Sunil Narine, and Varun Chakaravarthy as they look to make the most of the conditions and swing the game in their team’s favor.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Who Could Score the Most Runs in CSK vs KKR Match?
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