Kolkata, April 25 -- Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face a stern test of survival when they host Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a crucial IPL 2025 encounter at Eden Gardens here on Saturday evening.
Having won just three of their eight games, KKR find themselves languishing at seventh on the points table, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. In contrast, Punjab are better placed in fifth with five wins, including a morale-boosting 16-run victory over KKR earlier this month.
KKR's struggles this season have been underlined by inconsistent batting and underwhelming performances from senior players. Captain Ajinkya Rahane remains one of the few bright spots, scoring a fluent 50 in their recent 39-run defeat to Gujarat Titan...