In the thrilling sixth match of the 2025 IPL season, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) showcased their might with a commanding eight-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
### KKR Reins in Rajasthan Royals’ Score
KKR, opting to field after winning the toss, made swift work of keeping Rajasthan in check, limiting them to a modest total of 151/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Rajasthan started with promise as Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed 29 runs off 24 balls, and captain Riyan Parag added a quick 25 from 15 balls during the powerplay. However, that momentum was soon stifled. Moeen Ali (2/23) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/17) were the linchpins in the middle overs, claiming vital wickets while taming the run rate.
Riyan Parag’s dismissal by Chakravarthy in the eighth over was a significant setback for RR. Both Nitish Rana (8 off 9) and Wanindu Hasaranga (4 off 4) offered little resistance, increasing the pressure on Rajasthan’s lineup. Dhruv Jurel played sensibly to notch up 33 off 28 balls in an attempt to steady the ship, but regular wickets kept RR from finding a foothold. Jofra Archer’s late spark of 16 off 7 balls only gave their total a semblance of respectability as KKR’s bowling remained relentless.
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### Quinton de Kock Leads KKR to a Comfortable Triumph
Chasing a target of 152, KKR executed their innings with calculated precision, thanks largely to Quinton de Kock’s masterful performance. The South African keeper-batsman was in stunning form, staying unbeaten on 97 from 61 deliveries, dispatching eight fours and six towering maximums to keep KKR firmly in control. Opening with Moeen Ali (5 off 12), who was run out after a misunderstanding in the sixth over, KKR ensured they stayed focused.
Though captain Ajinkya Rahane’s steady innings of 18 off 15 provided stability, his dismissal seemed to offer a glimmer of hope for Rajasthan. But young Angkrish Raghuvanshi stepped up, scoring 22 off 17, and along with de Kock, snuffed out any chances of a Rajasthan comeback. Even with Rajasthan bowlers like Hasaranga (1/34) and Parag trying to apply pressure, KKR moved unwaveringly toward victory. De Kock’s effort was instrumental in securing KKR’s first win of the IPL 2025, a perfect rebound after their opening stumble.
### Fans Share Their Thoughts
Twitter erupted with reactions following the clash. Irfan Pathan praised de Kock’s form as great news for KKR, while Wasim Jaffer expressed concerns about Rajasthan’s struggles this season. Fans lamented de Kock’s early retirement, marveling at his talent. Sohom missed seeing a century but applauded the innings. Prithvi reminisced on how others filled his shoes after de Kock’s exit.
Sabeeha Majid and the Kolkata Knight Riders’ official handle celebrated the thrilling finish and the season of 97s, while Rajasthan Royals promised a comeback despite the setback. Cricket Times hailed KKR’s dominant chase, highlighting de Kock’s fiery knock.
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