KKR Secures First IPL 2025 Win as de Kock’s Unbeaten 97 Leads the Charge
Guwahati, March 26 – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) registered their first victory of IPL 2025 with a dominant eight-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Barsapara Cricket Stadium. Quinton de Kock’s explosive 97 off 61 balls* and a strong bowling display from Moeen Ali and Varun Chakaravarthy set the stage for KKR’s emphatic triumph.
KKR’s Bowlers Put RR on the Backfoot
Stepping in for an unwell Sunil Narine, Moeen Ali (2/23) and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/17) dismantled RR’s batting lineup, restricting them to 151/9. At one stage, RR were well placed at 67/1, but a dramatic collapse saw them slump to 82/5.
Despite Dhruv Jurel’s 33 off 28 balls and Jofra Archer’s late cameo of 16, RR failed to put up a competitive total. Poor shot selection from their top order proved costly.
De Kock’s Masterclass Guides KKR Home
Chasing 152, de Kock wasted no time, smashing boundaries early on. He finished with 8 fours and 6 sixes, maintaining a strike rate of 159.02. Though Moeen Ali (5) fell to a run-out and Ajinkya Rahane (18) was dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga, de Kock remained unshaken.
Supported by Angkrish Raghuvanshi (22),* the South African wicketkeeper-batter sealed the chase in 17.3 overs, finishing the match in style with a towering six.
RR’s Struggles Continue
With this win, KKR gets on the points table, while RR remains winless in the 10-team tournament.
Brief Scores:
