KKR vs PBKS Preview: Depleted Kolkata Knight Riders keen to stop in-form Punjab Kings

KOLKATA: If momentum is crucial in sport, Punjab Kings will carry plenty of it into their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Monday. Last season’s runners-up, who have opened their campaign with back-to-back wins, start as favourites against hosts KKR, still searching for their first point of IPL 2026.

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KKR’s bowling was initially seen as their weak link after they failed to defend a 200-plus total in the opening game, but their batters’ inability to last 20 overs or reach 200 in the second match has now raised concerns about the batting too. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane summed up the situation candidly: “At this moment, we are still looking for the best combination.”




A team still unsure of its balance will find it difficult to take on a confident opponent. Injuries have compounded KKR’s problems, with Harshit Rana and Akash Deep ruled out, while IPL 2026’s highest-paid player Cameron Green has yet to bowl despite the management being aware of his limitations beforehand.

“We need that extra bowler as a cushion. If we play three pacers and two spinners and someone struggles, we don’t have a backup at this moment,” Rahane admitted.

Green rolling his arm over in the nets on Saturday was a positive sign, but the Australian is unlikely to bowl on Monday. His struggles with the bat — just 20 runs in two matches — have further hurt KKR in the middle overs, with Rinku Singh and Ramandeep Singh also yet to provide the finishing punch usually associated with Andre Russell.

KKR’s batters will face a stern test against one of the most experienced bowling units in the tournament. Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Marco Jansen and Yuzvendra Chahal bring considerable international experience and adaptability to varying conditions.



NUMBERS GAME

• 36 - Number of wickets at 20.27 runs apiece in 27 matches taken by Sunil Narine — the most by a bowler against Punjab Kings in the IPL.
• 21 - Number of wins registered by KKR against Punjab Kings — the most by them against any opponent. Punjab Kings’ tally of defeats (21) is the most by them against any opponent.

Stats - Rajesh Kumar
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