The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) got off to a slow start while chasing Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) total of 192. KKR lost early wickets and could only manage 36/2 at the end of six overs.
In a change in the batting order, Sunil Narine opened the innings with Finn Allen. However, the partnership did not last long as Allen departed for just one run. The Kiwi opener was caught by Shivam Dube while attempting to accelerate the scoring.
Soon after, Narine was dismissed by Khaleel Ahmed for 24 runs off 17 balls. Although the West Indian all-rounder provided a brisk start, he failed to convert it into a substantial innings.
At the end of the powerplay, KKR were struggling at 36/2, having failed to capitalise on the fielding restrictions. Captain Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi were at the crease, looking to rebuild the innings and chase down the target of 193.
For CSK, Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj picked up a wicket each. The spells from Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad are expected to be crucial as the hosts aim to secure their second win of the season, having beaten the Delhi Capitals in their previous match.
CSK post 192/5 in first innings
Earlier, the Chennai Super Kings posted 192/5 in their 20 overs against the Kolkata Knight Riders, with Dewald Brevis and Sanju Samson leading the charge.
CSK got off to a solid start, with Samson continuing his fine form. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter, who scored a century in the previous match, followed it up with a quickfire 48 off 32 balls.
After Ruturaj Gaikwad’s early dismissal, Ayush Mhatre counter-attacked from the outset, scoring 38 runs off just 17 balls. Later, Brevis contributed 41 runs off 29 deliveries to take CSK to a competitive total.
For KKR, Kartik Tyagi was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 2/35 from his four overs. Narine also impressed with the ball, returning economical figures of 1/21 in his quota.
