New Delhi, May 26 -- Ajinkya Rahane-led Kolkata Knight Riders faced another defeat on Sunday as they were set a mammoth 278-run target by Sunrisers Hyderabad. KKR batters faltered under pressure, and the franchise ultimately ended up being bowled out for 168.

Despite the loss, Rahane remained optimistic about the defending champions' potential in the IPL, stating that had they won two to three close matches this season, a top-two finish would have been likely. Rahane also admitted that his bowlers failed to execute their plans, but acknowledged Heinrich Klaasen and other SRH batters batted exceptionally well.

Speaking after the match, Rahane said, "Throughout the season, we had our moments, we had our chances, 2-3 close games which we t...