Gujarat Titans (Photo source: X/IPL)
Match 39 of the IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens witnessed Gujarat Titans (GT) deliver a commanding performance to defeat the hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 39 runs, consolidating their position at the top of the points table. KKR, having won the toss and elected to bowl first, struggled to contain GT’s batting firepower.
Batting first, Gujarat Titans posted a formidable 198/3 in 20 overs. Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a brilliant 90 off 55 balls, laced with 10 fours and 3 sixes. He shared a crucial 114-run partnership with Sai Sudharsan, who contributed a steady 52 off 36 balls. Jos Buttler provided the finishing touches with an explosive 41* off 23 deliveries, while Shahrukh Khan chipped in with a quickfire 11*. Despite their efforts, KKR’s bowlers failed to make early inroads, with Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, and Vaibhav Arora picking up a wicket each.
In response, KKR stumbled early and could only manage 159/8 in their 20 overs. Captain Ajinkya Rahane played a fighting knock of 50 but lacked support from the top order. Angkrish Raghuvanshi showed some late promise with an unbeaten 27 off 13, yet the target proved too steep. Gujarat’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings, with Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna claiming two wickets apiece, while Mohammed Siraj, Sai Kishore, Ishant Sharma, and Washington Sundar chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
With this clinical win, Gujarat Titans remain firmly at No. 1 in the standings, showcasing both batting depth and bowling variety. Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, continue their inconsistent run, now sitting in 7th place and in desperate need of a turnaround as the tournament enters its crucial phase.
Milestone achieved – KKR vs GT, Match 39:
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Mohammed Siraj: Became the highest wicket-taker (7 wickets) in the powerplay in the IPL 2025.
