The high-voltage final clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) ended with a complete dominating performance by KKR, who won the contest by 8 wickets. This victory marked KKR’s third overall title in the tournament’s history.

KKR Bowlers Keep SRH Batters at Bay

Opting to bat first, SRH struggled to find their footing against a relentless KKR bowling attack. Mitchell Starc set the tone early with a brilliant spell, taking 2 wickets for just 14 runs in his 3 overs. His early breakthroughs put SRH on the back foot right from the start.

See Also: Fans call Starc a big match player after his spell in IPL final

Despite the early setbacks, Pat Cummins tried to anchor the SRH innings with a resilient 24 off 19 balls, including 2 fours and a six. Aiden Markram also chipped in with 20 runs off 23 balls, and Heinrich Klaasen managed to add 16 runs off 17 balls. However, these efforts were not enough to build a competitive total.

Bowling Excellence by KKR

Mitchell Starc’s impactful spell was supported by disciplined bowling from Vaibhav Arora and Harshit Rana. Andre Russell was the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 19 runs in 2.3 overs. Their combined effort ensured that SRH could only manage a modest total.

SRH’s Struggle to Build Partnerships

The SRH batting line-up couldn’t build significant partnerships, which was crucial for posting a challenging total. The lack of momentum and continuous fall of wickets kept SRH from gaining any foothold in the match.

Varun Chakravarthy’s Contribution

Varun Chakravarthy also played a crucial role in KKR’s bowling attack, taking 1 wicket for just 9 runs in his 2 overs. His economical bowling further tightened the noose around the SRH batsmen.

KKR’s Commanding Chase

Chasing a modest target of 114 runs, KKR’s innings was spearheaded by a blistering half-century from Venkatesh Iyer. His aggressive knock of 52 runs off 26 balls, studded with 4 fours and 3 sixes, ensured KKR’s dominance and a quick victory.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz provided a solid start to the chase, scoring 39 runs off 32 balls, hitting 5 fours and 2 sixes. His performance set the foundation for an easy chase.

Fan Reactions

Fans erupted in praise for KKR’s dominant performance. Social media platforms were abuzz with congratulatory messages and celebrations. Tweets, posts, and comments highlighted the excitement and satisfaction among the KKR supporters.

Mitchell Starc proved his worth and justified his hefty price tag in the IPL 2024 final. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired him for an astonishing Rs 24.75 crores, and he delivered a match-winning performance against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 26. Starc’s brilliant bowling spell rattled SRH’s top order, setting the stage for KKR’s dominance in the final.

Starc’s Impact in the First Over

In the first over of the match, Starc showcased his big-match temperament by clean-bowling the in-form Abhishek Sharma. The young opener, who had been in stellar form throughout the season, was undone by a delivery that nipped away treacherously to hit the off-stump. Sharma, who had scored 484 runs in the tournament with an impressive strike rate of 204.21, was dismissed for just two runs.

See Also: Has Starc delivered the ball of IPL 2024? Have a look!

From Struggles to Dominance

Starc had a rocky start to the IPL 2024 season. However, he turned his fortunes around with a spectacular performance against Mumbai Indians in match 54. This resurgence carried into the knockout stages, where he delivered a match-winning spell against SRH in Qualifier 1, finishing with figures of 3/34.

Key Wickets in the Final

Starc struck again in the fifth over, dismissing Rahul Tripathi, who had been a crucial player for SRH in their Qualifier 2 victory over Rajasthan Royals. Tripathi’s dismissal was a significant blow to SRH, as he had been one of their most reliable performers in high-pressure situations.

Vaibhav Arora’s Contribution

Vaibhav Arora, who bowled the second over of the match, complemented Starc’s efforts by dismissing Travis Head for a duck. This early wicket further compounded SRH’s problems, leaving them struggling at the start of their innings.

Fans’ Reactions to Starc’s Performance

Cricket fans and enthusiasts used social media to express their admiration for Starc’s breathtaking spell. His ability to deliver in high-stakes matches drew widespread acclaim, with many praising his skill and composure under pressure.

In a highly anticipated IPL 2024 final, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) crumbled to an embarrassing total of 113 runs in 18.3 overs. Pat Cummins scored 24 runs for SRH, as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowlers delivered a clinical performance at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. This article delves into the details of SRH’s batting collapse and KKR’s dominant bowling display.

A Star-Studded Line-Up Falls Short

Despite having a star-studded line-up, SRH faltered on a surface that, while challenging, could have been more playable. The pitch offered swing, bounce, and grip, which KKR exploited expertly. KKR’s bowlers kept the pressure on SRH from the outset, never allowing them to build momentum.

See Also: IPL 2024 final: KKR bowlers led by Starc strike early as SRH lose top three inside powerplay

Mitchell Starc Strikes Early

Mitchell Starc, the most expensive player in IPL 2024, dismissed Abhishek Sharma in the first over with a beautiful delivery. Starc’s early breakthrough was a crucial blow to SRH, who struggled to recover.

The top order woes continued for SRH as Travis Head fell to Vaibhav Arora in the next over. Rahul Tripathi departed early, leaving SRH reeling at 21/3 inside the powerplay. KKR’s bowlers relentlessly picked up wickets regularly, preventing significant partnerships from forming.

Middle Order Resistance and Quick Fall

Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen attempted to stabilize the innings, but their efforts were short-lived. Both batsmen got starts but failed to convert them into substantial scores. Their dismissals further compounded SRH’s problems.

Pat Cummins provided a glimmer of hope with a brief cameo, scoring 24 runs. His efforts pushed SRH’s total past the 100-run mark, but it was far from a competitive score in a high-stakes final.

KKR’s Bowlers Shine

Mitchell Starc showcased his prowess with the ball again, leading KKR’s attack with precision and skill. His early breakthrough set the tone for the rest of the innings. Andre Russell stepped up on the big occasion, taking three crucial wickets. His all-round performance was instrumental in KKR’s dominance.

Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora also made significant contributions, each taking important wickets to dismantle SRH’s batting line-up. KKR’s bowlers worked in tandem, ensuring no SRH batter could settle.

SRH’s Record-Breaking Low Score

With their collapse, SRH broke Chennai Super Kings (CSK) 11-year-old record for the lowest score in an IPL final. CSK had previously held the record with 125/9 in the 2013 final.

In 2013, CSK failed to chase down Mumbai Indians’ total of 148, losing the final by 23 runs. SRH’s performance in 2024 was even more disappointing, highlighting the pressure and unpredictability of the IPL finals.

Lowest totals for SRH (IPL)
96 vs MI Hyderabad 2019
113 vs MI Hyderabad 2015
113 vs KKR Chennai 2024 *
114 vs PBKS Dubai 2020

Lowest totals in IPL finals
113 SRH vs KKR Chennai 2024 *
125/9 CSK vs MI Kolkata 2013
128/6 RPS vs MI Hyderabad 2017
129/8 MI vs RPS Hyderabad 2017

The IPL 2024 final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai was electrifying. With fans on the edge of their seats, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set the stage ablaze by reducing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to a precarious position early in the match.

Toss and Team Strategies

Winning the toss, SRH captain opted to bat first, hoping to put up a challenging total on the board. KKR’s bowlers, spearheaded by the fiery Mitchell Starc, executed their plans perfectly. SRH reeled at 21 for three within the first five overs, thanks to some exceptional bowling.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024: Virat Kohli likely to miss India’s only warm-up match; Reports

Mitchell Starc’s Magic

The most expensive player of IPL 2024, Mitchell Starc, lived up to his billing by claiming the prized wicket of SRH opener Abhishek Sharma in the first over. Starc’s good length delivery, angling in and pitching on the middle stump, left Sharma stranded without footwork, resulting in an easy dismissal. Sharma, who had a stellar season, could only manage two runs off 5 balls.

Vaibhav Arora Joins the Party

Vaibhav Arora sent Travis Head back to the pavilion for a duck in the next over. The away-swinger found Head’s faint edge, which keeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz comfortably caught. With both openers dismissed within the first two overs, SRH’s innings was in tatters.

SRH’s Struggle for Stability

The quick fall of wickets continued to plague SRH. Despite a few boundaries from Rahul Tripathi and Aiden Markram, the team needed help finding stability. Tripathi’s dismissal, courtesy of another brilliant delivery from Starc, left SRH at 23 for three.

Rahul Tripathi’s Short Stay

Trying to guide the ball through the leg side, Tripathi got a thick top edge that Mandeep Singh caught near the square leg. His departure for 9 runs put SRH in a deeper hole.

Aiden Markram’s Resilience

Aiden Markram attempted to anchor the innings with a few crucial boundaries, but the relentless pressure from KKR’s bowlers made it difficult to build a substantial partnership with Nitish Reddy. But Nitish Reddy is caught behind on the last ball of Harshit Rana’s first over, adding Rana to the list of successful KKR bowlers. Once again, an away-swinger does the trick for a KKR pacer. SRH stand at 47/4 after 7 overs.

Reddy c Gurbaz b Rana 13(10)

Lowest Powerplay scores for SRH in IPL 2024
37/2 vs RR Hyderabad
40/3 vs PBKS Mullanpur
40/3 vs KKR Chennai *
45/4 vs KKR Ahmedabad

Mitchell Starc
World Cup 2023
Group stage: 10 wkts in 8 matches
Knockouts: 6 wkts in 2 matches
IPL 2024
Group stage: 12 wkts in 12 matches
Play Offs: 5* wkts in 2 matches

The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the IPL 2024 season as the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) face off against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in what promises to be an electrifying final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will buzz with excitement and enthusiasm as fans rally behind their favorite teams.

SRH vs KKR

KKR and SRH have been the standout teams in the tournament by quite some distance. And it does not surprise me that these two are in the final, especially because of the presence of two individuals who have thrived under pressure over the years in crunch matches—Gautam Gambhir and Pat Cummins.

See Also: IPL 2024 Final: Updated weather report of Chepauk for final showdown

Gautam Gambhir’s Impact on KKR

Gautam Gambhir‘s influence on KKR is legendary. As a player, he led the team to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. From 2011 to 2017, Kolkata made the playoffs five times. When Gambhir was not with them for six seasons, they tried multiple captains, but none could win the title.

Now, as a mentor, his strategic understanding and ability to motivate players have been invaluable. Gambhir’s knack for thriving in knockout matches is well-documented, and his presence in the KKR camp has undoubtedly been a confidence booster. His experience and guidance have been key to KKR’s resurgence this season.

Pat Cummins’ Leadership for SRH

Pat Cummins has had a remarkable run as SRH’s captain. Despite initial skepticism about his leadership abilities in the T20 format, Cummins has silenced critics with his outstanding performance. His strategic decisions and ability to inspire his team have been crucial to SRH’s success. Cummins’ versatility as a player and leader has shone through, making him an integral part of SRH’s journey to the final.

Cummins’ Versatile Cricketing Skills

During SRH’s dream run this season, they faced many questions. The Sunrisers were criticized for their ‘apparently’ not-so-strong bowling attack. The Orange Army also encountered criticism for their inability to chase down targets. Yet, under Cummins’ leadership, they’ve overcome these hurdles, proving their critics wrong.

Recap of KKR’s Season

Consistent performances and strategic gameplay have marked KKR’s journey to the final. Key matches showcased their ability to handle pressure and deliver when it mattered most.

Recap of SRH’s Season

SRH’s season was a rollercoaster, with initial struggles followed by a remarkable turnaround. Their resilience and tactical acumen saw them navigate through tough matches and emerge victorious.

The much-anticipated IPL 2024 final between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is set against an intriguing backdrop of weather concerns and pitch conditions. Chennai, the venue for this grand showdown, experienced a cloudy yet rain-free morning in the lead-up to the match.

However, the excitement was briefly tempered by a sharp spell of rain on Saturday evening, which disrupted KKR’s training session and raised fears about the final being affected. As of 1 PM on Sunday, the rain threat diminished, with only a 4% chance of precipitation, according to Accuweather.

Provision for Reserve Day

If weather conditions prevent the completion of the final on Sunday, IPL organizers have wisely included a provision for a reserve day. This contingency plan ensures the match can be concluded, provided the team batting second has played at least five overs to achieve a decisive result. This rule aims to avoid the scenario where rain leaves the final inconclusive and maintains the integrity of the competition.

See Also: First batch of Indian Team leaves for USA ahead of T20 World Cup 2024

Reflecting on the 2023 IPL final, where rain delays pushed the match into a reserve day, offers a sense of preparedness for any weather-related disruptions this year. In that memorable game, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) triumphed over the Gujarat Titans in a thrilling finish.

Pitch Conditions and Preparations

The pitch for the IPL 2024 final has been a topic of keen interest, given its potential influence on the match outcome. The red-soil strip selected for the final was previously used in CSK’s match against Punjab Kings on May 1. During that encounter, spinners Harpreet Brar and Rahul Chahar emerged as game-changers, combining to take 4 for 33 in eight overs and significantly restricting CSK’s total. This historical performance suggests that spin could play a pivotal role in the final, adding an extra layer of strategy for both teams.

KKR’s Training Session Disruption

The unexpected rain on Saturday evening disrupted KKR’s final preparations, forcing the team to adjust their training schedule. Such interruptions can impact the team’s rhythm and readiness.

SRH’s Journey to the Final

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s path to the final has been marked by impressive performances, particularly in Qualifier 2 against the Rajasthan Royals. SRH’s victory on a turning black-soil pitch, where they anticipated dew but managed to navigate its absence, showcased their adaptability and resilience.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has reached its climax as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) prepare to battle it out in the final on Sunday, May 26. The grand showdown will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, a venue known for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate cricket fans.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

KKR has had a remarkable season, showcasing a blend of experience and young talent. Under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, KKR has emerged as a formidable force. Key players like Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and the young Afghan sensation Rahmanullah Gurbaz have played pivotal roles in their journey to the final.

KKR’s Road to the Final

KKR’s journey to the final has been nothing short of spectacular. They secured a direct entry to the final by defeating SRH in Qualifier 1. Their performance was highlighted by Mitchell Starc’s brilliant bowling and Gurbaz’s impactful return to the team.

See Also: Fans applaud ‘lone warrior’ Dhruv Jurel against SRH in Qualifier 2

3 Players to be in focus from KKR

The IPL 2024 Final is upon us, and all eyes are on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as they prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Among the many stars in the KKR lineup, three players stand out as key to their success: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Shreyas Iyer, and Varun Chakravarthy.

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the talented Afghan cricketer, has faced significant personal challenges this season. Mid-tournament, he returned to Afghanistan to be with his ailing mother. However, the Kolkata Knight Riders needed him back urgently after their primary keeper-batter, Phil Salt, left for national duties.

Gurbaz’s return to the team was nothing short of dramatic. In Qualifier 1 against SRH, he played a pivotal role. His quick 23-run knock off just 14 balls, including two fours and two sixes, set a blistering pace in KKR’s 160-run chase.

As KKR heads into the final, Gurbaz’s role will be crucial. His ability to provide a blistering start can put the opposition under pressure right from the beginning. Fans and teammates alike will be looking for him to replicate his explosive performance and set the tone for the match.

2. Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer’s journey to this final has been a rollercoaster. Despite a fine run in the ODI World Cup, he faced a tough period afterward. He lost his Test place in the home series against England, overshadowed by emerging youngsters. He also missed out on the T20 World Cup squad and, to add to his woes lost his BCCI central contract due to unavailability for domestic first-class games.

Despite these setbacks, Iyer has shown resilience and strong leadership. Gautam Gambhir’s influence on the team has been significant, but Iyer’s personal growth as a captain has also been evident. His previous success with Delhi Capitals, where he led them to their maiden IPL final in 2020, speaks volumes about his capabilities.

In IPL 2024, Iyer has had a decent run with the bat. Scoring 345 runs at a strike rate of 146.19 in 13 innings, he has largely batted in the middle order, capitalizing on the strong starts provided by the top order. As KKR’s captain, his strategic insight and batting prowess will be critical in the final against SRH.

Varun Chakravarthy

Varun Chakravarthy has been a standout performer for KKR this season. With 20 wickets to his name, he ranks among the top wicket-takers of IPL 2024. His mystery spin continues to baffle batters, making him a vital cog in KKR’s bowling attack.

In the crucial Qualifier 1 against SRH, Chakravarthy’s spin was instrumental. He took two important wickets, helping KKR to stifle the SRH batting lineup and secure their place in the final. His ability to perform under pressure highlights his importance to the team.

The final at Chepauk, known for its spin-friendly conditions, is the perfect stage for Chakravarthy to weave his magic. His performance will be crucial in breaking through SRH’s batting order and keeping the runs in check. If he can continue his form, KKR will have a significant advantage.

Mitchell Starc’s bowling heroics and Shreyas Iyer’s batter masterclass helped table-toppers KKR defeat in-form SRH by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday, securing their place in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

Shreyas Iyer’s motivation in this match was clear. The World Cup 2023 final loss was a painful memory, and facing Pat Cummins and Travis Head again in such a crucial match was a chance for redemption.

Shreyas Iyer’s Blazing Knock

The World Cup 2023 final loss for India at the Narendra Modi Stadium against Pat Cummins’ Australia is one of the most heartbreaking moments in the history of Indian cricket. It is still fresh in the minds of millions of cricket fans. When Pat Cummins led SRH, including Travis Head, the centurion of that World Cup final, took on KKR, Shreyas Iyer would have had that World Cup final loss in mind. Determined to avenge that defeat, Shreyas and his team hammered SRH by eight wickets with 38 balls to spare, storming into the IPL 2024 final.

See Also: KKR advance to IPL 2024 final with convincing 8-wicket victory over SRH

Shreyas Iyer smashed 58 off just 24 balls, including three sixes and a four against Travis Head on consecutive deliveries. This power-hitting spectacle came in the 14th over, the last over of the game, sealing KKR’s victory.

Turning the Tide in Head’s Over

The first ball of the over, a fuller one on the middle stump line by Head, was launched deep into the stands towards the deep mid-wicket region. The second delivery was powered away with disdain for a boundary. The third delivery, a tossed-up one, saw Shreyas Iyer reaching his fifty with another biggie over deep mid-wicket. The final winning six was launched over long-on with great swagger, showcasing Iyer’s dominance.

The loss for SRH means that they will now play the winner of the Eliminator between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru and would be hoping to win that game and avenge this loss in the final of IPL 2024 at Chepauk on 26th of May.

Shreyas Iyer: The Best Captain in IPL

Under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy, KKR has reached new heights:

1. Finalist with DC in 2020
2. Finalist with KKR in 2024
3. 9 Wins in League Stage This Season
4. KKR Topping the Points Table for the First Time
5. Highest NRR Ever in IPL History

• Match-Winning Knock: Iyer scored an unbeaten 58*(24) in Qualifier 1.
• Leadership Excellence: His strategic brilliance and ability to inspire his team have been pivotal in KKR’s success.

BCCI’s Controversial Decision

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the Annual Player Contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the 2023-24 season on February 28 but axed Shreyas Iyer from the list. Iyer was excluded from the list of centrally contracted players for not playing in the Ranji Trophy.

Despite the exclusion, Iyer has shown his tremendous talent in IPL 2024, leading KKR to the playoffs and now into the final.

Social Media Praise for Shreyas Iyer

After KKR’s dominant win, fans and cricket enthusiasts took to social media to praise Shreyas Iyer for his great captaincy and explosive batting. Hashtags and posts celebrating Iyer’s leadership and performance have been trending, highlighting his impact on KKR’s success this season.

IPL 2024 has witnessed thrilling cricketing action, with players showcasing their skills on the grand stage. As the tournament progresses, the race for the Orange and Purple Caps intensifies, highlighting individual brilliance amidst team efforts.

IPL 2024: Most Runs

Virat Kohli has once again proven why he is considered one of the best in the world. Leading the charge for RCB, Kohli has amassed an impressive 708 runs in 14 matches.

See Also: Netizens applaud Captain Cummins for stellar cameo in Qualifier 1 against KKR

Despite CSK not making it to the playoffs, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s performance with the bat has been commendable. Taking over the captaincy from MS Dhoni, Gaikwad has shown maturity beyond his years, scoring 583 runs in 14 matches.

Travis Head has been a revelation this season. Despite a disappointing game against Punjab, Head has consistently been one of the most explosive batsmen in the league. With 533 runs in 13 matches, his aggressive style of play has been a nightmare for bowlers.

Riyan Parag has finally lived up to the promise that Rajasthan Royals saw in him. With 531 runs in 14 matches, Parag has shown he can handle the pressure and consistently perform at the highest level.

Sai Sudharsan has been one of the few bright spots for Gujarat Titans in an otherwise disappointing season. Scoring 527 runs in 12 matches, Sudharsan has showcased his potential and skill, making him a key player in the future.

IPL 2024: Orange Cap

IPL 2024: Most Wickets

Harshal Patel has been phenomenal for Punjab Kings, becoming the first bowler to reach the 20-wicket mark this season. With 24 wickets in 14 matches, Patel has been a standout performer, especially in the death overs.

Jasprit Bumrah remains one of the most feared bowlers in the IPL. With 20 wickets in 13 matches, his performance against KKR was another reminder of his class and consistency.

Varun Chakravarthy’s unique bowling style has once again proven to be effective. Despite a shaky start, he now ranks among the top wicket-takers with 20 wickets in 14 matches.

Arshdeep Singh has been a revelation for the Punjab Kings. Despite the team not making the playoffs, his performances have been noteworthy, with 19 wickets in 14 matches.

T. Natarajan has been a consistent wicket-taker for SRH, with 18 wickets in 12 games. His ability to deliver at crucial moments has made him a valuable player for the team.

IPL 2024: Purple Cap

Mitchell Starc’s bowling heroics helped table-toppers KKR defeat in-form SRH by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday, securing their place in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

SRH will get another chance to reach the title clash when they take on the winner of the Eliminator between RR and RCB in Qualifier 2 on Friday. This is the fourth time the Knight Riders have reached an IPL final.

Match Overview

The stakes were high in Qualifier 1, with KKR aiming to continue their dominant run and SRH looking to capitalize on their form. KKR’s journey this season has been remarkable. They finished as table-toppers with 20 points from 14 matches, largely thanks to their all-around performances and strategic brilliance.

See Also: Netizens applaud Captain Cummins for stellar cameo in Qualifier 1 against KKR

Starc’s Early Impact

Mitchell Starc, IPL’s most expensive buy, justified his hefty price tag with a sensational three-wicket burst. He delivered an early blow by dismissing Travis Head on the second ball of the game, uprooting his stumps. This early setback left SRH in disarray. Starc continued his onslaught by removing Nitish Reddy and Shahbaz Ahmed during the powerplay, reducing SRH to 44/3.

Middle Order Resistance

Rahul Tripathi provided some resistance by fighting 55 off 35 balls. He formed a crucial 62-run partnership with Heinrich Klaasen, who contributed 32 off 21 balls. Their efforts were vital in pushing SRH past the 100-run mark, but wickets continued falling regularly.

KKR’s Tight Bowling

KKR’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout the innings. Varun Chakravarthy’s dismissal of Klaasen was pivotal, and Sunil Narine chipped in with key wickets, further derailing SRH’s innings.

SRH’s Lower Order Fightback

Despite the top order’s collapse, Pat Cummins played a crucial knock of 30 off 24 balls, forming a vital 33-run stand for the last wicket with Vijayakanth Viyaskanth. This late surge helped SRH reach a respectable total of 159.

KKR’s Dominant Chase

The impressive fifties led KKR’s chase from Venkatesh Iyer (51* off 35) and Shreyas Iyer (58* off 36). They effortlessly gunned down the target in just 13.4 overs, showcasing their batting prowess and ensuring a comprehensive victory.

This victory marks KKR’s fourth entry into an IPL final, a testament to their consistent performance and strategic insight. Gautam Gambhir’s return as a mentor has been instrumental in their resurgence this season.

Mitchell Starc’s early breakthroughs set the tone for the match, while the Iyer duo’s fifties sealed the deal for KKR. Other notable performances included Varun Chakravarthy’s economical bowling and Pat Cummins’ crucial late innings.

DYK: Since 2018, the team that won Qualifier 1 went onto win the IPL trophy every single time.

Most 50-plus scores as a captain in playoffs
2 – MS Dhoni
2 – Rohit Sharma
2 – David Warner
2 – Shreyas Iyer*

Most appearances in the IPL final
10 – CSK
6 – MI
4 – KKR*
3 – RCB

Highest partnership for KKR in playoffs
136 – M Bisla & J Kallis vs CSK, Chennai, 2012
97* – Shreyas Iyer & V Iyer vs SRH, Ahmedabad, 2024*
96 – Shubman Gill & V Iyer vs DC, Sharjah, 2021

Venkatesh Iyer’s scores in playoffs
26 (30) vs RCB, Sharjah, 2021
55 (41) vs DC, Sharjah, 2021
50 (32) vs CSK, Dubai, 2021
51* (28) vs SRH, Ahmedabad, 2024*

Winning with the most balls to spare in IPL (160+ targets)
62 – SRH vs LSG, Hyderabad, 2024 (Target: 166)
38 – KKR vs SRH, Ahmedabad, 2024 (Target: 160)
34 – KKR vs SRH, Kolkata, 2014 (Target: 161)
32 – MI vs RR, Wankhede, 2014 (Target: 190)