The Kolkata Knight Riders coasted to a 25-run victory over the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2018 eliminator on Wednesday, 23 May.
Co-owner Shah Rukh Khan missed the team’s win at Eden Gardens owing to his professional commitments. However, he posted a Twitter video, apologising to the team for his absence and promised to be present for the second qualifier.
Sorry guys, was in the middle of a bath, getting ready for shoot so couldn’t say hi to you all in the changing rooms. But love you and I’ll be there. KKR!Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner, Kolkata Knight Riders
The Knight Riders were put to bat by the Royals on a damp Eden Gardens wicket. The boys from Jaipur made full use of the conditions as the KKR top-order collapsed with just Chris Lynn making it to double figures. However, a sublime half-century by skipper Dinesh Karthik and a late assault by Andre Russel propelled the Knight Riders to a fighting total of 169.
With the pitch opening out, the Royals would have fancied their chances.
Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and youngster Sanju Samson’s 62-run stand set the Royals on course for a victory. But a magical spell by Kuldeep Yadav left the Royals wanting for runs. The chinaman conceded just 18 runs in his four overs and picked up the crucial wicket of Royals’ captain Rahane. The Royals’ middle-order failed to stand-up and caved-in under pressure.
The Knight Riders will now play the Sunrisers Hyderabad for a place in the final in the second qualifier on Friday, 25 May. Chennai Super Kings have already qualified for the final after they beat Kane Williamson and Co in the first qualifier in Mumbai on Tuesday (22 May).
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