In the fiercely contested Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals fixture of Match 53 of the IPL 2025, the aggressive KKR opening style with the much-hyped Sunil Narine at the crease could not deliver results for the franchise.
Famous for starting on high-intensity levels, Narine was outplayed by RR paceman Yudhvir Singh Charak in dismissing him cheaply on what would have otherwise been a small beginning. At the end, the middle order delivered for KKR and reached a total of 206.
KKR Powerplay Strategy in Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals
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KKR have called upon Sunil Narine to act as a pinch-hitter in the powerplay several times now, based on his ability to score runs quickly and get KKR off to a flying start. However, this method of playing is high risk, especially when up against a well-drilled bowling attack such as the Rajasthan Royals.
A Slow Start Against Archer and Pressure from Yudhvir Singh
Narine had a hard time getting started during the initial overs of the Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders game. During the first over, Narine only managed 1 run off 3 balls against Jofra Archer. The pressure was maintained during the second over from Yudhvir Singh Charak, and Narine was unable to connect on the first three balls.
The Turning Point: Yudhvir Outsmarts Narine
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Aware that Narine was eager to go after his bowling, Yudhvir adjusted his speed deliberately. On the last ball of the over, he bowled a clever slower ball. Narine tried another big hit with less pace in the ball than he anticipated. The ball skidded through and hit the top of the stumps, bringing Narine’s innings to an end on 11 runs off 9 balls and including a four and a six.
Narine’s Underwhelming Batting Form in IPL 2025
This innings has created a bit of a headache for Sunil Narine in IPL 2025. At just 189 runs in 10 games, Narine’s average and strike rate are plummeting from last season’s potential of 488 runs in 15 games with an average close to 35. His highest this season is only 44.
Impact on KKR’s Playoff Hopes
Narine’s batting failure is representative of KKR’s overall failure in IPL 2025. The champions from last season are placed with just 9 points from 10 games, and their journey to the playoffs is very much in doubt. His inability to give explosive starts has left KKR exposed at the top, putting additional pressure on the middle order.
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