Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) – IPL 2025 Live Updates
The Eden Gardens in Kolkata is set to host a crucial IPL 2025 encounter between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). While RR have already been eliminated from playoff contention, KKR are still fighting for survival in the tournament. After a thrilling win against Delhi Capitals, Shreyas Iyer’s men will look to keep their playoff dreams alive with another victory.
KKR vs RR: Match Preview – Can Kolkata Keep Their Playoff Hopes Alive?
KKR’s Playoff Equation: Must-Win Situation
KKR’s recent win over DC has kept them in the race, but they need to win all their remaining matches to have a realistic shot at the playoffs. With only one win in five home games this season, Eden Gardens hasn’t been their fortress. However, with key players like Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, and Andre Russell finding form, KKR will hope to turn things around.
- Current Position: 7th (Must win all remaining matches)
- Key Players: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh
- Recent Form: W, L, L, W, NR (vs PBKS due to rain)
RR’s Pride at Stake – Can They Play Spoiler?
Rajasthan Royals, once a strong contender, have had a disastrous IPL 2025 campaign. With Sanju Samson injured and key bowlers struggling, RR will play for pride and experimentation. Youngsters like Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag might get more opportunities as RR look to end their season on a high.
- Current Position: 8th (Eliminated)
- Key Players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Trent Boult
- Recent Form: L, L, W, L, L
Weather Update: Rain Threat Looms Over Kolkata
The match could be affected by rain, particularly in the second half. A washout would dent KKR’s playoff chances further, while RR have nothing to lose. Fans will hope for a full 40-over contest.
Key Battles to Watch Out For
- Sunil Narine vs Yashasvi Jaiswal – Narine’s mystery spin against Jaiswal’s aggressive batting.
- Andre Russell vs Trent Boult – Russell’s power-hitting against Boult’s lethal swing.
- Rinku Singh vs Yuzvendra Chahal – Rinku’s finishing skills vs Chahal’s guile.
Predicted Playing XI
KKR Probable XI:
- Phil Salt (wk)
- Sunil Narine
- Shreyas Iyer (C)
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Rinku Singh
- Andre Russell
- Ramandeep Singh
- Mitchell Starc
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Harshit Rana
- Vaibhav Arora
RR Probable XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Jos Buttler
- Riyan Parag
- Dhruv Jurel (wk)
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Rovman Powell
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Trent Boult
- Avesh Khan
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Sandeep Sharma (if fit)
Match Prediction: KKR Slight Favorites
With more at stake, KKR are expected to come out all guns blazing. However, RR’s explosive openers (Jaiswal & Buttler) can turn the game single-handedly. If KKR’s middle order fires, they should secure a crucial win.
Final Verdict: KKR to win a close contest.
