How KKR Can Be Kingmaker For RCB With Revenge Against Punjab Kings

Aashay Chopade

KKR are all set to take on PBKS in Kolkata (Source: AP Photos)KKR are all set to take on PBKS in Kolkata (Source: AP Photos)

The IPL 2025 is now into its 44th game, and it is a reverse-fixture between the two teams that produced an absolute cracker of a game on April 15. Yes, it is Kolkata Knight Riders up against Punjab Kings, and the game will be played at the home of the defending champions as they eye a revenge after that famous collapse in Mullanpur.

KKR's Revenge - A Gift For RCB?

KKR have suffered heartbreaking losses against Punjab Kings in the last two encounters. The second of those came at this very ground, Eden Gardens, when PBKS chased down 262 with eight wickets in hand. Now, KKR have an opportunity to hurt Punjab Kings with double intensity as a win could have big implications on their playoff hopes.

RCB's chance of making it to the playoffs could also get a big boost after KKR win. Thus, let's now dive deeper into the implications of Punjab Kings loss to KKR, if it does happen. 

  • Currently on the points table, three teams are on 12 points, while three are at 10 points. Thus, these are the six teams that have most chances of making it to the playoffs. KKR is out of that league, with six points, and a win against Punjab Kings will help them keep themselves in the race.
  • Punjab Kings though are at the fifth position with 10 points in eight matches, while RCB have played one more game, and are at 12 points. Mumbai Indians are between them with 10 points in nine matches. The two teams at the top GT and DC are bit safe at the moment with 12 points in eight matches. Thus, it is important for RCB, MI and PBKS to not slip-up at this juncture, as it could put them in a tricky position.
  • MI are looking in great form, and given their arsenal, and past history, they appear to be a team that will leave no stone unturned in their bid to make it to the playoffs now. Now, if we compare PBKS and RCB, there is difference of two points, but the former's net run-rate is bit low.
  • Thus, if PBKS lose the game against KKR, they would be stuck at 10 points, and it would give RCB a lead of two points, plus a better net run-rate is already in their favour. PBKS will then get into a similar position as LSG. Thus, RCB will have good lead over MI, PBKS and LSG, the three teams that can challenge their playoff position, and it could well make all the difference in the end.

Thus, KKR who are considered to be one of the fierce rivals of RCB, have a great chance to be a kingmaker for RCB.