IPL 2025: LSG vs KKR – A Thrilling Encounter at Eden Gardens
Date: April 8, 2025
21st Match • Kolkata, Eden Gardens
LSG 238-3 (20)
KKR 234-7 (20)
Result: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) beat Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 4 runs
The 21st match of IPL 2025 between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens was a high-octane thriller that kept fans on the edge of their seats. With over 470 runs scored in 40 overs, the game was a batsman’s paradise, but it was LSG’s bowlers who held their nerve in the final moments to secure a narrow 4-run victory.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the match highlights, key performances, and turning points.
1. LSG’s Batting Onslaught: Marsh & Pooran Dominate
Powerplay Explosion (0-6 Overs) – 95/0
LSG got off to a flying start with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 48) and Aiden Markram (handy cameo) tearing into KKR’s bowling attack. The duo took full advantage of the fielding restrictions, smashing 90 runs in the powerplay—one of the highest in IPL history 212.
- Marsh was particularly brutal, hitting 7 fours and 4 sixes, while Markram played the perfect second fiddle before falling to Harshit Rana 13.
- KKR’s bowling woes: Vaibhav Arora and Spencer Johnson struggled with their lines, conceding 16 and 24 runs in their first two overs respectively 8.
Middle Overs (7-15) – Pooran’s Carnage
After Markram’s dismissal, Nicholas Pooran (87 off 36)* walked in and unleashed mayhem. His 36-ball blitz included 8 sixes and 5 fours, with Andre Russell (1/52) and Harshit Rana (2/45) bearing the brunt of his assault 615.
- Key Moment: Pooran’s 24-run over off Russell in the 18th over, including three consecutive sixes, propelled LSG to a mammoth 238/3 12.
- LSG’s Record Total: This was the highest team total at Eden Gardens in IPL history, surpassing KKR’s previous best of 232 13.
2. KKR’s Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride
Powerplay Fireworks (90/1 in 6 Overs)
KKR’s chase began explosively, with Sunil Narine (30 off 13) and Ajinkya Rahane (61 off 35) launching a brutal counterattack.
- Narine’s Early Assault: He smashed Akash Deep for 16 runs in the first over, including a six and two fours 15.
- Rahane’s Captain’s Knock: The KKR skipper played a flawless innings, reaching his 50 in just 26 balls and keeping KKR ahead of the required rate 8.
Middle Overs Collapse (162/2 to 185/7)
Just when KKR seemed in control at 162/2, LSG’s bowlers triggered a dramatic collapse:
- Rahane’s Dismissal (61 off 35): A soft dismissal off Shardul Thakur’s full toss, caught by Pooran, turned the tide 13.
- Venkatesh Iyer (45 off 29) Falls: After a solid knock, he holed out to Aiden Markram off Akash Deep 12.
- Russell’s Brief Cameo (7 off 4): The big-hitter was caught at long-off off Shardul Thakur, leaving KKR in trouble 15.
Rinku Singh’s Late Heroics (38 off 15)*
With 38 needed off 12 balls, Rinku Singh nearly pulled off a miracle:
- 19 runs off the last over (Bishnoi): He smashed 4, 4, and 6 in the final three balls, but KKR fell just 4 runs short 28.
- Harshit Rana’s Support (10 off 9):* The tailender held his nerve but couldn’t get the big hits when needed 12.
3. Key Turning Points
- LSG’s Powerplay Dominance (95/0) – Set the tone for a massive total.
- Pooran’s 24-run Over vs Russell – Took the game away from KKR.
- Rahane’s Dismissal at 162/2 – Triggered KKR’s middle-order collapse.
- Rinku’s Last-Over Blitz – Almost stole the game but fell agonizingly short.
4. Player of the Match: Nicholas Pooran
Pooran’s 87 (36 balls, 8 sixes)* was the difference-maker, earning him the Player of the Match award. His fearless hitting in the death overs ensured LSG had enough cushion to defend 613.
5. Post-Match Reactions
- Rishabh Pant (LSG Captain):
“We knew it would be close, but the bowlers held their nerve. Pooran and Marsh were exceptional.” 8 - Ajinkya Rahane (KKR Captain):
“We gave our best, but losing wickets in clusters cost us. Rinku’s effort was special.” 13
6. What This Means for the IPL 2025 Standings
- LSG moves to 4th place with their third win.
- KKR remains mid-table, needing to address their bowling frailties 612.
Final Verdict: A Classic IPL Thriller
This match had everything—explosive batting, dramatic collapses, and a nail-biting finish. While LSG’s bowlers held their nerve, Rinku Singh’s valiant effort reminded everyone why he’s one of the most dangerous finishers in the league.
Final Score:
- LSG: 238/3 (20)
- KKR: 234/7 (20)
A game that will be remembered for years!
