Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to host Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 57 of the IPL 2025 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday, May 07. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST and will be broadcast live on JioStar Network Channels and streamed on JioHotstar.
Team Overviews
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):
KKR come into this clash after a thrilling one-run win over Rajasthan Royals at the same venue. That narrow victory kept their playoff hopes alive, although they remain in a must-win situation. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, the team will be hoping to continue their winning momentum and rely on other match results to break into the top four.
Young players like Angkrish Raghuvanshi have stepped up consistently, while experienced names such as Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and Varun Chakaravarthy continue to provide strength in both departments. With a good mix of firepower and tactical depth, KKR remain a serious threat at home.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK):
For CSK, the campaign has already ended in disappointment. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, the team has suffered four straight defeats and became the first side to be eliminated from playoff contention. With no pressure of qualification, CSK now play for pride and the chance to dent the hopes of playoff hopefuls like KKR.
Despite the poor run, CSK still possess dangerous players. The likes of Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, and Deepak Hooda have the ability to win games on their day, while MS Dhoni’s presence and influence remain unmatched.
Head-to-Head Record
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Matches Played: 30
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KKR Wins: 11
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CSK Wins: 19
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Tied: 0
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No Result: 0
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First Match: April 26, 2008
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Most Recent: April 11, 2025
Chennai has historically dominated this rivalry, but KKR will be confident, especially playing in front of their home crowd.
Probable Playing XIs
Kolkata Knight Riders:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Moeen Ali, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Vaibhav Arora
Impact Player: Harshit Rana
Chennai Super Kings:
Shaik Rasheed, Ayush Mhatre, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Dewald Brevis, Deepak Hooda, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj, Matheesha Pathirana
Impact Player: Shivam Dube
Pitch Report – Eden Gardens, Kolkata
The Eden Gardens surface has played fairly well this season, offering early movement for seamers and making things challenging for spinners due to grass cover. However, with dew expected in the second innings, teams batting first could enjoy slightly better conditions. While the previous match here saw grip for slower bowlers, this game may offer more to the batters. Toss could play a major role, with the team winning it likely to opt to bat first and post a strong total.
Key Players to Watch
Angkrish Raghuvanshi (KKR):
The young top-order batter has impressed with 285 runs in his last 10 innings. His ability to build innings under pressure and accelerate when needed makes him one of KKR’s key assets.
Varun Chakaravarthy (KKR):
With 15 wickets in 11 matches, the mystery spinner has delivered consistently for KKR. His familiarity with Eden Gardens and his variations could prove crucial.
Sam Curran (CSK):
A proven match-winner, Curran’s all-round skills will be vital if CSK are to pull off an upset. His bowling with the new ball and power-hitting in the lower order make him a valuable asset.
MS Dhoni (CSK):
Though not at his explosive best, Dhoni’s game awareness and leadership could still guide CSK through tight moments. Fans will be eager to see a vintage finish from him.
Match Scenarios and Predictions
Scenario 1 – KKR Bat First:
Powerplay: 60–70
Total: 200–215
Likely Winner: Kolkata Knight Riders
Scenario 2 – CSK Bat First:
Powerplay: 50–60
Total: 185–200
Likely Winner: Chennai Super Kings
Match Prediction
With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, KKR are expected to come out all guns blazing. Playing in familiar conditions, and with a more balanced side on current form, Kolkata Knight Riders are slightly ahead in this contest. However, CSK, with nothing to lose and a rich head-to-head history, could make things unpredictable. Still, the prediction leans toward the team that bats first having a better chance to win.
