KKR Sets Challenging Target of 180 Against CSK in IPL Clash

KKR's Strong Performance at Eden Gardens

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India] May 7: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased a formidable performance led by captain Ajinkya Rahane, who scored a crucial 48 runs, alongside a powerful contribution from all-rounder Andre Russell, who added 38 runs. KKR concluded their innings at 179-6 in 20 overs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during their Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Wednesday at Eden Gardens.

After winning the toss, KKR's Rahane chose to bat first. The opening partnership featured Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sunil Narine, but Gurbaz was dismissed early by CSK's Anshul Kamboj in the second over for 11 runs. Rahane then joined Narine at the crease.

During the powerplay, KKR scored 67 runs for the loss of one wicket, aggressively attacking the CSK bowlers. The pair of Rahane and Narine put together a quick 50-run partnership for the second wicket in just 25 balls. However, Noor Ahmad made a significant impact by taking two wickets in his first over, dismissing Narine and Angkrish Raghuvanshi for just 1 run.

Manish Pandey came in to support Rahane, and after 10 overs, KKR was at 87-3. Ravindra Jadeja then took the crucial wicket of Rahane, who scored 48 off 33 balls, including four boundaries and a six, establishing a solid base for KKR. Andre Russell then entered the game, partnering with Pandey.

The two added 46 runs in a brisk 27 balls for the fifth wicket before Noor Ahmad struck again, removing Russell for 38 runs off 21 balls, which featured four fours and three sixes. Rinku Singh then joined Pandey at the crease.

As the innings progressed, KKR reached 163-5 after 18 overs. Noor Ahmad continued his impressive bowling, claiming his fourth wicket by dismissing Rinku for 9 runs off 6 balls in the 19th over. In the final two overs, Pandey and Ramandeep Singh managed to score only 16 runs.

Noor Ahmad was the standout bowler for CSK, finishing with figures of 4 wickets for 31 runs. Jadeja and Kamboj each took one wicket, while the remaining CSK bowlers failed to claim any. KKR's innings concluded at 179/6, setting CSK a target of 180 runs in their chase.

Brief score: KKR 179/6 (Ajinkya Rahane 48, Andre Russell 38; Noor Ahmad 4/31) vs CSK.