source : BCCI
As Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prepare to face off in IPL 2025, both teams find themselves struggling at the bottom of the points table. The last time these two sides met was in the IPL 2024 final, but this season has been a completely different story. KKR currently sits in the last position, while SRH is only slightly better at eighth. With both teams desperate for a turnaround, this match at Eden Gardens holds significant importance.
One of the biggest concerns for KKR has been their fragile batting lineup. Their opening partnership, which was a major strength last season, has failed to fire, averaging just 15.3 runs per match. Additionally, their middle order, featuring key players like Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, and Andre Russell, has struggled to make an impact. To make matters worse, KKR batters have shown vulnerability to short-pitched deliveries, accounting for nine of their 12 dismissals against pace bowling this season. This weakness could be exploited further by SRH’s experienced pace attack.
SRH, on the other hand, has struggled in both powerplays—failing to capitalize with the bat and being ineffective with the ball. Abhishek Sharma has shown glimpses of form but has failed to convert his starts into big scores. Their batting approach, which relies on relentless attacking shots, has led to below-par totals in recent matches. While their pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mohammed Shami, and Harshal Patel seemed strong on paper, their performance has been underwhelming, conceding runs at an economy rate of 11.7—the second-worst in the tournament.
With both teams facing similar struggles, the match will be a test of different philosophies. SRH captain Pat Cummins has backed his team’s aggressive batting approach, while KKR mentor Dwayne Bravo has emphasized the need for his batters to be more adaptable and strategic. This tactical contrast will be on full display as both teams look to break their losing streaks. Key players like Heinrich Klaasen, who has a strong record against KKR’s spin duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, and KKR’s Andre Russell, who has been out of form, will be in the spotlight.
Eden Gardens’ pitch could also play a crucial role in deciding the outcome. With KKR requesting a slower surface to aid their spinners, SRH’s dependency on their openers could be put to the test. Historically, KKR has dominated this matchup, winning eight of the last ten encounters. However, with both teams desperate for a win, this game promises to be an intense battle where only one side can revive their IPL 2025 campaign.
