When the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) square off in a crucial Saturday night match, the action in the 2025 Indian Premier League moves to the legendary Eden Gardens. With Match 44 being a crucial fixture for both teams, fantasy cricket players are on the hunt for the best captain and vice-captain choices to maximize their Dream11 points.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), led by Ajinkya Rahane, have struggled this season, managing just three wins in eight matches. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings (PBKS) are in strong playoff contention with five victories. As both teams look to build momentum, here are the top three captain and vice-captain picks for this thrilling encounter.
In fantasy cricket this season, Sunil Narine has been a true gem, constantly putting up impressive performances with the bat and the ball. Promoted to the top of the order, Narine has rediscovered his explosive batting form, scoring 147 runs in 7 innings at a strike rate of 177.10. His ability to provide quick starts makes him invaluable in fantasy leagues.
With the ball, Narine remains as lethal as ever, picking up 7 wickets in 7 matches while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.60. His familiarity with Eden Gardens and his history of troubling PBKS batters make him a top-tier captaincy choice.
KKR’s skipper, Ajinkya Rahane, has been the backbone of their batting lineup this season. With 271 runs in 8 matches at an average of 38.71 and a strike rate of 146.48, Rahane has blended stability with aggression. Ajinkya Rahane ability to both anchor the innings and accelerate when necessary is demonstrated by his three fifties.
Playing at Eden Gardens, where he understands the conditions well, Rahane is likely to play a pivotal role if KKR bats first. As a captain or vice-captain, he offers a high floor for fantasy points, especially in scenarios where he bats deep into the innings.
Shreyas Iyer, who led KKR to the IPL 2024 title, now returns to Eden Gardens as Punjab Kings’ captain—and he has a point to prove. His form this season has been sensational, amassing 263 runs in 8 matches at a blistering strike rate of 185.21, including three fifties and a match-winning 97*.
Iyer thrives under pressure, and facing his former team could bring out his best. Iyer has a great chance to take control because KKR's bowling attack appears to be weak. For Dream11 players, he is the top captaincy pick due to his explosive batting and high fantasy point potential.
This game promises pyrotechnics as both teams battle for vital points. Choose your Dream11 captain and vice-captain wisely to climb the fantasy leaderboards!
Also Read: IPL 2025 Playoff Scenario After Mid Season : AI-Based Insight
Give Your Feedback