Kolkata Knight Riders edged out Rajasthan Royals by a single run in a nail-biting finish. Rajasthan Royals were already out of the playoffs, but KKR’s win kept their hopes alive. Riyan Parag’s 95-run innings wasn’t enough to seal the win for RR. Here are three key reasons why RR lost the match.
Missteps that Cost RR the Game
RR’s batting faltered at critical moments, ultimately costing them the game. One major issue was their inability to score quickly when it mattered most.
- Shubman Dubey struggled to score, making just 8 runs in his first 10 balls. A strike rate of around 150 would have put RR in a stronger position.
- RR’s bowlers conceded 85 runs in the final five overs, making it difficult for KKR to defend their total.
Riyan Parag’s aggressive batting was a highlight of RR’s innings, but he got caught out in Sunil Narine’s over, which yielded just five runs. If Narine’s over had produced 10 or more runs, RR might have won.
Key Moments that Changed the Game
The match turned in KKR’s favor due to a combination of RR’s mistakes and KKR’s smart play.
- Shimron Hetmyer’s dismissal in the 16th over marked a turning point, as RR struggled to score thereafter.
- KKR’s bowlers successfully defended their total, thanks to smart bowling in the final overs.
These factors ultimately led to KKR’s victory, keeping their playoff hopes alive.