The Eden Gardens in Kolkata witnessed a nail-biting finish on Saturday as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) edged past the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by a mere 4 runs in the third match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.
KKR Set a Challenging Target
Opting to bat first, KKR got off to a flying start thanks to a blistering knock from Phil Salt, who smashed three sixes in a row in just the second over. Andre Russell continued the momentum later in the innings with a powerful 64* off just 28 balls, helping KKR post a competitive total of 208/7 on the board.
SRH Fall Short Despite Klassen’s Heroics
In reply, SRH started cautiously but lost wickets at regular intervals. Just when all hope seemed lost, Heinrich Klaasen launched a counter-attack with a quickfire 63 off just 29 balls. However, some tight bowling from the KKR bowlers, especially in the death overs by the hero of the match, Harshal Rana (3/38), restricted SRH to 204/7, falling short of the target by 4 runs.
Key Highlights
- Phil Salt’s aggressive knock of 54(21) provided a solid foundation for KKR’s innings.
- Andre Russell’s late blitz of 64*(28) ensured KKR had a good total to defend.
- SRH’s chase was spearheaded by Heinrich Klaasen’s quickfire 63(29).
- Harshal Rana’s crucial three wickets in the death overs proved decisive for KKR.
Player of the Match: Andre Russell
Andre Russell’s all-around performance, with both a crucial half-century and his experience with the ball, earned him the Player of the Match award.
This match was a thrilling encounter that showcased the power-hitting of T20 cricket and the importance of last-over finishes.