Last-Ball Drama Seals the Match
In a breathtaking IPL 2025 clash, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) edged past Rajasthan Royals (RR) by just one run in a final-ball thriller. RR needed three runs off the last delivery, but Shubham Dubey’s shot to long-off wasn’t enough, thanks to a pinpoint throw by Rinku Singh that ran out Jofra Archer.
Russell’s Late Blast Pushes KKR to Big Finish
Andre Russell was the game-changer for KKR, smashing 57 off just 25 balls, including 10 boundaries in the final five overs. His late assault, especially on Madhwal and Archer, helped KKR reach a defendable total. He brought up a 22-ball fifty and was named Player of the Match.
Parag Nearly Pulls Off the Impossible
Riyan Parag’s heroic knock nearly won RR the game. He struck six sixes in a Moeen Ali over and added another off Varun Chakravarthy. With help from Hetmyer and Dubey, he brought RR within touching distance before falling at a critical juncture. 
Key Moments in the RR Chase
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Varun Chakravarthy’s dismissal of Hasaranga halted RR’s momentum.
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Harshit Rana and Sunil Narine tightened the screws with economical overs.
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Russell’s 19th over restricted RR to just 11 runs.
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Vaibhav Arora’s final over featured three crucial yorkers, sealing the win.
KKR’s Mixed Powerplay Start
Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sunil Narine struggled early, but Rahane and Raghuvanshi steadied the innings. Raghuvanshi played a key knock before falling to Archer. Parag picked up wickets with the ball as well, removing Rahane with a clever delivery.
Russell Ignites at the Death
Entering at 111/3, Russell took time to settle before launching an onslaught. He targeted pace over spin and cashed in when bowlers missed their yorkers. His sixes in the 18th and 20th overs were crucial in setting a 190+ total.
Reactions from the Players
Andre Russell (Player of the Match)
“We had four finals to play. I wasn’t worried about dot balls—I knew I could catch up later. Once I got in, I backed myself, and it paid off.”
Ajinkya Rahane (KKR)
“We wanted to go hard in the powerplay and consolidate in the middle. Our fielding saved crucial runs, which made a big difference.”
Rinku Singh (KKR)
“I enjoy fielding more than batting. The final throw had to be sharp—credit to our bowling unit too.”
Riyan Parag (RR)
“I should have finished it. We had the game in our hands but weren’t clinical enough in the final overs.”
