IPL 2026: Bowlers power CSK to convincing 32-run win over KKR
Chennai, April 14
A clinical bowling display led by Noor Ahmad and Anshul Kamboj complemented a strong batting performance as Chennai Super Kings defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 32 runs in their IPL 2026 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, here on Tuesday.
Defending a competitive 192/5, CSK struck early and maintained control throughout, restricting KKR to 160/7 in 20 overs despite late resistance from Ramandeep Singh and Rovman Powell.
KKR's chase began on an experimental note, with Sunil Narine opening alongside Finn Allen. While Narine showed early intent with a couple of sixes, Allen fell cheaply as Kamboj struck in the second over to provide CSK an early breakthrough.
Narine failed to build on his start and was dismissed by Khaleel Ahmed during the powerplay, leaving KKR struggling at 36/2 after six overs - their lowest powerplay score since 2024. Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi attempted to rebuild, briefly lifting the scoring rate with a mix of boundaries and sixes.
However, CSK's spin attack turned the game decisively in the middle overs. Akeal Hosein broke the partnership by removing Raghuvanshi, before Noor delivered a match-defining spell. The Afghan left-arm wrist-spinner dismissed Rahane and struck twice in quick succession, removing Cameron Green for a golden duck and later Rinku Singh, derailing KKR's chase.
Noor finished with impressive figures of 3/21, consistently troubling batters with his variations and exploiting the Chepauk surface. His spell reduced KKR from a position of recovery to deep trouble at 91/6.
With the required rate climbing, Ramandeep (35 off 23) and Powell (31 not out off 22) stitched together a fighting partnership, keeping KKR's hopes alive with occasional boundaries. However, disciplined bowling from CSK ensured the target remained out of reach.
Kamboj returned at the death to seal the contest, finishing with 2/32. He removed Ramandeep in the penultimate over and conceded just 12 runs in the final over to close out the game.
Earlier, CSK posted a strong 192/5 after electing to bat. Sanju Samson led the charge with a fluent 48, while young Ayush Mhatre provided a blistering start with a 17-ball 38. Dewald Brevis added impetus in the middle overs with a well-compiled 41, helping CSK recover after a brief slowdown.
Despite efforts from KKR's bowlers, particularly Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, to pull things back in the middle overs, CSK's aggressive start ultimately proved decisive.
The win marks CSK's second successive victory, while KKR continue to struggle for consistency in their batting and remain winless.
Brief scores;
Chennai Super Kings 192/5 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 48, Dewald Brevis 41, Ayush Mhatre 38; Kartik Tyagi 2/35) beat Kolkata Knight Riders 160/7 in 20 overs (Ramandeep Singh 35, Rovman Powell 31*; Noor Ahmad 3/21, Anshul Kamboj 2/32) by 32 runs.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a KKR fan, this is getting frustrating. Our batting order is so unstable. Why experiment with Narine opening when we have proper openers? Rahane and Raghuvanshi started well, but the middle order collapse is a recurring nightmare. Need to sort this out before it's too late in the tournament.
Watching from the UK, the quality of spin bowling in this IPL is outstanding. Noor Ahmad's control and variations are a masterclass. Also, great to see young Indian pacers like Kamboj holding their nerve at the death. CSK's team balance is near perfect.
Respectfully, I think the article glosses over CSK's own batting issues. Yes, 192 is good, but there was a clear slowdown in the middle. Over-reliance on Samson and Brevis. If KKR's spinners had more support from the pacers, the target could have been lower. Just a thought!
Whistle Podu echoing loud and clear! 🥳 The real hero was the team strategy. Using spin in the middle on a turning track was a brilliant move. Also, credit to Dhoni (the mentor) for backing young Mhatre at the top. He gave us the explosive start we needed. On to the next one!
KKR's powerplay score of 36/2 says it all. You can't win matches in Chennai with such a timid start. The pitch was good for batting initially. Allen's early wicket set the wrong tone. They need to go back to basics and let their best batsmen face the
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