IPL 2025: De Kock and spinners get KKR off the mark as RR stumble at Riyan’s home-OxBig News Network

Kolkata Knight Riders displayed glimpses of the solidity that propelled them to glory last season, outclassing Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati by eight wickets on Wednesday, March 26. After a disappointing performance in the IPL 2025 opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kolkata bounced back in style, chasing down a tricky target of 152 on a sluggish pitch in just 17.3 overs. | RR vs KKR IPL 2025 Highlights |

Quinton de Kock stepped up in the absence of Sunil Narine, smashing an unbeaten 97 off just 61 balls to guide Kolkata Knight Riders to victory. While none of the other batters found rhythm on a bowler-friendly surface at the Barsapara Stadium, De Kock used all his experience to anchor the chase and take his team past the finish line.

This marked the first win of the IPL 2025 season for the defending champions—two points that would bring relief and confidence to the dressing room and coaching staff after their ordinary display against RCB. Rajasthan, on the other hand, slumped to their second successive defeat. Despite strong support for Riyan Parag, the hometown hero, Rajasthan failed to rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable performance.

IPL 2025 Coverage | IPL Points Table | IPL Schedule

The win was set up by spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Moeen Ali, who made his debut for KKR. The England off-spinner was included in the XI in place of Sunil Narine, who was sidelined due to illness. Moeen made an immediate impact, picking up two crucial wickets while conceding just 23 runs in his four overs. Varun, who had struggled against RCB, bounced back brilliantly, taking two wickets and giving away just 17 runs in his four-over spell.

The contrasting performances of the two spin-bowling units proved to be the decisive factor. While Moeen and Varun collectively conceded just 40 runs in eight overs, Rajasthan’s spinners failed to strike regularly, despite deploying four options, including stand-in captain Riyan Parag.

Rajasthan appear uncertain in terms of strategy and team selection after undergoing a mini-revamp in the lead-up to the IPL 2025 season.

More to follow.