Gujarat Titans (GT) defeated the hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 39 runs in Match 39 of the IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens, solidifying their lead in the standings. KKR found it difficult to restrict GT’s batting prowess after winning the toss and choosing to bowl first.
When they batted first, the Gujarat Titans scored an impressive 198/3 in 20 overs. Shubman Gill, the captain, took the lead with a spectacular 90 off 55 balls that included three sixes and ten fours. With a consistent 52 off 36 balls, Sai Sudharsan joined him in a vital 114-run partnership. Shahrukh Khan added a rapid 11*, and Jos Buttler put the finishing touches on the game with a blazing 41* off 23 deliveries. Despite their best attempts, KKR’s bowlers were unable to establish any early momentum; each of Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, and Vaibhav Arora claimed a wicket.
Early in their reply, KKR faltered and could only muster 159/8 in their 20 overs. Ajinkya Rahane, the captain, played a valiant fifty but was not helped by the top order. Angkrish Raghuvanshi had an undefeated 27 off 13 to show some late hope, but the aim was too high. Throughout the innings, Gujarat’s bowlers applied steady pressure, with Mohammed Siraj, Sai Kishore, Ishant Sharma, and Washington Sundar all making significant contributions. Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna each took two wickets.
With this decisive victory, Gujarat Titans, who have demonstrated both bowling variety and batting depth, are still comfortably atop the standings. In contrast, the Kolkata Knight Riders are currently in seventh place and are in dire need of a turnaround as the competition moves into its pivotal stage. They are still having an uneven run.
Milestone achieved – KKR vs GT, Match 39:
-
Mohammed Siraj: Became the highest wicket-taker (7 wickets) in the powerplay in the IPL 2025.