A clinical bowling performance by Noor Ahmad and Anshul Kamboj, combined with a strong batting display, led Chennai Super Kings to a 32-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Chennai, defending 192/5, controlled the game throughout, restricting Kolkata to 160/7 in 20 overs despite late resistance from Ramandeep Singh and Rovman Powell.
Kolkata’s chase started experimentally with Sunil Narine opening alongside Finn Allen. While Narine showed intent with a couple of sixes, Kamboj’s early breakthrough by dismissing Allen set the tone. Narine’s dismissal by Khaleel Ahmed during the powerplay left Kolkata struggling at 36/2 after six overs, their lowest powerplay score since 2024.
CSK’s spin attack dominated the middle overs, with Akeal Hosein breaking partnerships and Noor Ahmad delivering a match-defining spell. Noor’s impressive figures of 3/21, including crucial wickets of Rahane, Green, and Singh, shifted the game in CSK’s favor, reducing Kolkata to 91/6.
Despite a fighting partnership between Ramandeep (35 off 23) and Powell (31* off 22), CSK’s disciplined bowling ensured Kolkata fell short. Kamboj’s 2/32 at the death sealed the victory for Chennai, restricting Kolkata to 160/7.
Chennai Super Kings posted a competitive 192/5 after opting to bat first, with contributions from Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhatre, and Dewald Brevis. Kolkata’s bowlers tried to pull things back, but CSK’s aggressive start proved decisive, securing CSK’s second consecutive win while Kolkata continues to struggle for consistency.
