KKR Clinch Thrilling Victory Against MI in Low-Scoring Encounter

In an unexpected turn of events, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerged victorious against Mumbai Indians (MI) in a thrilling encounter, marking their first win at the venue since 2012. Despite a batting collapse, KKR managed to post a total of 169 runs on a fresh and tacky pitch, courtesy of a resilient effort from Venkatesh Iyer. MI, on the other hand, struggled in their chase, ultimately falling short by 24 runs.

Where was the game won?

MI's innings was anchored by Suryakumar Yadav, who fought valiantly till the end. However, his dismissal in the 16th over triggered a collapse from which MI couldn't recover. Despite losing half their side, KKR managed to gather some crucial runs, providing their bowlers with a defendable total.

The death-overs difference

Team	Score	Run Rate	4s/6s
KKR	41/5	8.48	1/4
MI	26/4	6.78	0/3

Kolkata Knight Riders

PowerPlay: KKR top-order misread 'fresh' Wankhede pitch

Nuwan Thushara's three-wicket burst and some disciplined bowling restricted KKR to 57/4 in the powerplay. The top-order struggled to read the pitch, leading to quick dismissals.

Middle-overs: Venkatesh Iyer, Manish Pandey steady the ship

Venkatesh Iyer and Manish Pandey orchestrated a recovery in the middle overs, stabilizing the innings after the early collapse. Their partnership provided KKR with much-needed momentum.

Death-overs: Bumrah mops up after Russell run-out

Despite a late surge from Andre Russell, KKR lost wickets in the death overs. Jasprit Bumrah's disciplined bowling and Mitchell Starc's lethal yorkers ensured a modest total for KKR.

Mumbai Indians

PowerPlay: MI stutter early

MI's top-order faltered against KKR's bowling attack, losing three wickets in the powerplay. Mitchell Starc and Varun Chakravarthy struck early blows, denting MI's chase.

Middle-overs: Suryakumar Yadav revives chase with 20-run over

Suryakumar Yadav's resilient knock kept MI's hopes alive. However, wickets kept falling at the other end, leading to a mounting required run rate.

Death-overs: Russell, Starc turn it around

Andre Russell's crucial wickets and Mitchell Starc's tight bowling in the death overs sealed the victory for KKR. MI's lower-order collapsed under pressure, handing KKR a convincing win.