Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) reignited their IPL 2025 playoff hopes with a 14-run victory over Delhi Capitals (DC), propelled by Sunil Narine’s match-defining all-round performance at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
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Narine’s Ice-Cold Precision Seals Thrilling Win
Veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine delivered a masterclass in clutch moments, scoring 27 runs, claiming 3/32, and effecting a game-changing run-out to dismantle DC’s chase.
After KKR posted 204/9, Narine’s direct hit to dismiss KL Rahul (22) in the 10th over shifted momentum, triggering DC’s collapse from 136/3 to 190/9.
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Captaincy & Spin Wizardry
With regular skipper Ajinkya Rahane sidelined by a hand injury, Narine stepped up as stand-in captain, marshaling his troops with trademark calm.
His spell turned the tide: he removed Axar Patel (43) and Tristan Stubbs (1) in quick succession before dismissing Faf du Plessis (62), who anchored DC’s chase.
Powerplay Blitz Sets the Tone
Narine and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (26) ignited KKR’s innings with a 48-run opening stand in just three overs.
The Trinidadian smashed the first ball for six off Mitchell Starc, forcing DC to rethink strategies.
“His presence disrupts plans,” said DC mentor Kevin Pietersen post-match.
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Death Bowling Heroics
With DC needing 69 off 41 balls, Narine partnered with Varun Chakravarthy (2/28) to strangle the middle order.
Chakravarthy’s back-to-back wickets of Ashutosh Sharma and Starc in the 18th over left DC reeling, despite Vipraj Nigam’s late 19-ball 38.
Key Moments:
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Narine’s run-out of Rahul: Precision throw from short fine leg.
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Axar’s injury woes: DC skipper batted through pain but fell to Narine’s drift.
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Du Plessis’ resistance: His 62 kept DC afloat until Narine’s knockout blow.
Post-Match Reactions
“Narine’s self-pride drives him,” said Andre Russell. “He’s our silent leader.”
Rahane praised his deputy: “He’s a champion bowler and now a captain. We trust him in any crisis.”
Standings Impact:
KKR climb to sixth, three points behind fourth-placed DC. With four matches left, Narine’s form could define their playoff fate.
