New Delhi: In a high-octane IPL 2025 clash at Eden Gardens, Gujarat Titans (GT) delivered a clinical all-round performance to defeat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 39 runs, strengthening their position on the points table. Powered by half-centuries from Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, followed by a disciplined bowling display led by Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna, GT cruised to a commanding win.
Gill, Sudharsan Dominate with the Bat
Opting to bat first, Gujarat Titans posted a daunting total of 198/3 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by captain Shubman Gill, who scored a fluent 90 off 55 balls, laced with 10 fours and 3 sixes. Gill looked in sublime touch, playing elegant strokes all around the ground and building a solid partnership with the in-form Sai Sudharsan, who contributed a brisk 52 off 36 balls.
The duo added 114 runs for the opening wicket, setting a perfect platform for a big finish. While Sudharsan fell to Andre Russell, Gill carried on until the 18th over before falling to Vaibhav Arora. Jos Buttler, batting at No. 3, added the finishing touches with a fiery 41 not out off 23 balls, pushing the total close to 200.
KKR Bowlers Struggle to Contain
Kolkata’s bowlers toiled hard but lacked penetration. Varun Chakaravarthy and Moeen Ali were economical, but wickets came at a premium. Vaibhav Arora and Harshit Rana managed a wicket each, while Russell was the only other bowler to strike, picking Sudharsan early in his spell. The Titans capitalized on KKR’s ineffective middle overs, scoring freely against spin and pace alike.
Early Blows Derail KKR’s Chase
Chasing 199, KKR had a poor start as Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell lbw to Mohammed Siraj in the very first over. Sunil Narine and Ajinkya Rahane tried to rebuild, with the latter scoring a fighting 50 off 36 balls, but GT kept striking at regular intervals. Sai Kishore dismissed Venkatesh Iyer, while Washington Sundar got the crucial wicket of Rahane via a smart stumping by Buttler.
Rashid, Prasidh Seal the Deal
The turning point came when Rashid Khan removed the dangerous Andre Russell for 21. The Afghan leg-spinner then dismissed Narine, finishing with 2 for 25 in his four overs. Prasidh Krishna struck twice in the 17th over, removing Ramandeep Singh and Moeen Ali in quick succession. KKR’s hopes faded quickly after that as they were reduced to 159/8, falling well short of the target.
Clinical Titans Rise Again
With this win, Gujarat Titans showcased their depth in both departments. Shubman Gill was named Player of the Match for his outstanding knock, and the Titans’ bowling unit once again proved their mettle in defending totals. KKR, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly as they continue their struggle in IPL 2025.
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