DC put on an impressive display, while KKR’s early wicket losses in the powerplay proved costly. Additionally, they did not allow Roy to play with freedom and intent. Ishant had a successful outing and Mukesh was excellent until his last over.
Kuldeep made a significant impact by taking two wickets in two deliveries, including KKR’s forced impact substitute on the first ball. Nortje’s pace was instrumental in dismissing Venky and Umesh, and Axar played a crucial role in removing Mandeep and Rinku.
Although KKR should have had a target of less than 110, the score of 128 is still quite manageable, especially given Suyash’s absence on the slow pitch. Ponting would be surprised if his team failed to achieve this target.
After a delay of almost an hour due to rain, both teams eventually took to the pitch. However, Kolkata Knight Riders struggled throughout the game. As has been the case this season, they faltered in the powerplay, losing three wickets.
They were unable to recover, and failed to reach a three-digit score. Jason Roy was the only notable batsman, scoring 43 off 39 balls, and one of only three KKR players to reach a double-digit score. The team relied on Andre Russell to salvage something in the death overs, but he struggled for the most part. In the final over, he managed to hit three consecutive sixes, taking KKR’s score to 127.