Introduction
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) kept their playoff hopes alive with a crucial 14-run victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Chasing a formidable 205-run target, DC were restricted to 190/9, thanks to standout performances by spinners Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy. Here’s a quick look at the top 5 highlights of this high-stakes IPL 2025 match.
1. Another Disappointing Show by Venkatesh Iyer
KKR’s most expensive auction pick, Venkatesh Iyer, failed to deliver once again. Scoring only 7 runs before falling to Axar Patel, Iyer’s poor run continues, raising concerns for the Knight Riders’ top order stability.
Venkatesh Iyer, KKR’s most expensive purchase in the mega auction, has been a huge letdown this season. The left-hander barely has much to show for in the ongoing season, except for a half-century. Iyer miseries continued against DC as he fell to Axar Patel after scoring just 7 runs.
2. Raghuvanshi and Rinku Steady the Ship
In the absence of meaningful contributions from Iyer, young Angkrish Raghuvanshi stepped up. His 44 off 32 balls, coupled with Rinku Singh’s composed 36 off 25, helped KKR build momentum. Their 61-run partnership was pivotal in setting a competitive total and keeping the scoreboard ticking under pressure.
3. Axar and Faf Try to Rescue DC
DC skipper Axar Patel impressed with both bat and ball. He took 2/27 before an injury forced him off the field. Nonetheless, he returned to smash a quickfire 43 off 23 balls. Meanwhile, Faf du Plessis led the side in Axar’s absence and played a responsible knock of 62 off 45 deliveries. Despite their efforts, DC fell short of the target.
In Axar’s absence, it was Faf du Plessis who was marshalling the DC troops during the KKR innings. And Faf played his part with the bat as well by hitting a 45-ball 62 with the help of 2 sixes and 7 fours.
4. Sunil Narine’s Second Spell Turns the Game
After a wicketless first spell, Sunil Narine turned the match in KKR’s favor during his second outing with the ball. He removed dangerous batters Axar, Stubbs, and Du Plessis in quick succession, finishing with figures of 3/29. His spell derailed DC’s run chase at a crucial juncture.
Sunil Narine conceded 19 runs off his first 2 overs without a wicket. And after KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane left the field with an injured finger, Narine was asked to lead the side with vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer subbed out.
DC were 130/3 when Narine came back to bowl his second spell and changed the course of the match. Narine dismissed Axar and Tristan Stubbs in his third over and in the following over, got rid of Du Plessis to rattle the DC run chase. He finished with figures of 3/29 from his 4 fours.
5. Chakaravarthy Seals the Win for KKR
Just when DC hoped for a late flourish, Varun Chakaravarthy struck. Brought in to bowl the 19th over, he dismissed Ashutosh Sharma and Mitchell Starc in back-to-back deliveries. His clutch bowling ensured there was no comeback for DC, solidifying KKR’s win.
Narine’s spin twin Varun Chakaravarthy had conceded 31 runs off his 3 overs without taking a wicket. DC were 159/6 when Narine brought in Chakaravarthy to bowl his last over. Chakaravarthy dismissed Ashutosh Sharma and Mitchell Starc off successive deliveries to knock the wind out of the DC run chase.
Conclusion
With this thrilling win, Kolkata Knight Riders have not only bounced back but have also made a strong statement for their playoff contention. Narine and Chakaravarthy’s spin magic proved decisive, while Delhi Capitals will need to regroup after suffering their second consecutive home defeat. Stay tuned for more IPL 2025 updates and match analysis.
