Knight Riders Hold Nerve as Royals Fall Just Short in Epic Run Chase
In one of the most exhilarating matches of IPL 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) edged out Rajasthan Royals (RR) by a slender 1-run margin at a packed Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Despite a heroic 95-run knock from Riyan Parag, the Royals fell heartbreakingly short in their chase of 207, handing KKR a crucial win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Andre Russell Powers KKR to 206/4
After being asked to bat first, KKR rode on the brute force of Andre Russell, who smashed 57 off just 25 balls. The West Indian all-rounder was at his destructive best in the final overs, sending the RR bowlers on a leather hunt. His innings included 5 sixes and 4 boundaries, helping KKR post a strong 206/4.
Key contributions included:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz: 34 (22) – Gave KKR a fast start
- Nitish Rana: 41 (28) – Anchored the middle overs
- Rinku Singh: 21* (9) – Finished off the innings with flair
Riyan Parag’s Heroics Light Up the Chase
In reply, Rajasthan Royals got off to a steady start but lost wickets at regular intervals. With the required rate climbing, it was Riyan Parag who launched an astonishing counterattack. The 22-year-old blasted 95 off 49 balls, studded with 7 sixes and 6 fours, nearly pulling off one of the greatest IPL chases.
Needing 11 runs off the final over, Parag struck a four and a six to bring it down to 1 run off 2 balls, but fell trying to clear the boundary, ending RR’s hopes.
Rinku Singh’s Fielding: The Game-Changer
While Parag dazzled with the bat, Rinku Singh’s fielding brilliance proved to be the silent difference-maker. He saved at least 10+ runs through committed dives on the boundary and also pulled off a crucial run-out in the 17th over, turning the tide in KKR’s favor when RR had built momentum.
Match Summary: KKR vs RR – IPL 2025
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| KKR | 206/4 (20 overs) |
| RR | 205/8 (20 overs) |
Player of the Match: Andre Russell – 57 (25) & 1 wicket
Key Stats
- Riyan Parag: 95 (49) – highest individual score for RR this season
- KKR Death Overs (16–20): Scored 74 runs
- KKR Bowling: Varun Chakravarthy – 2/26 | Russell – 1/27
- RR Finish: Lost 3 wickets in the last 2 overs needing 23 runs
What This Means for the Points Table
The narrow win helps KKR climb to 6th position, reviving their playoff campaign. RR, despite Parag’s brilliance, miss out on valuable points that could have secured a top-four position earlier.
Post-Match Reactions
- Shreyas Iyer (KKR captain): “This game tested our nerves. Full credit to Parag, but I’m proud of how our boys held it together.”
- Riyan Parag: “I gave it everything. Just one shot away, but we move on stronger.”
- Andre Russell: “That’s what I live for—big games, big moments. Happy to contribute in both innings.”
Conclusion
The KKR vs RR clash delivered everything an IPL fan could ask for—fireworks, drama, and a heart-stopping finish. Andre Russell’s power, Parag’s fearless chase, and Rinku’s fielding magic combined to make this a match for the ages. With the playoff race heating up, KKR’s 1-run win could prove pivotal.
FAQs
Q1: Who won the KKR vs RR match on May 4, 2025?
A: Kolkata Knight Riders won by 1 run.
Q2: Who was the Player of the Match?
A: Andre Russell for his 57-run knock and 1 crucial wicket.
Q3: What was Riyan Parag’s score?
A: He scored 95 off 49 balls, falling just short of a match-winning ton.
Q4: Where was the match played?
A: Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Q5: How did KKR perform in the last over?
A: They defended 11 runs, with Parag falling on the second-last ball.
