PBKS vs KKR: Eden Garden in A Clash of Titans – Full Match for April 26, 2025 preview
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is getting heated up, and one of the most anticipated fixtures is on us: Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders PBKS vs KKR. Set for 26 April at the prestigious Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the match promises high-octane cricket, strategic masterstroke and personal talent.
Head-to-Head: PBKS vs KKR rivalry
Over the years, PBKS vs KKR have faced 34 IPL matches. The KKR holds the upper hand with 21 wins, while PBKs has won 13 wins. However, recent encounters have seen changes in speed:
- 2025: PBKS won by 16 runs.
- 2024: PBKS won by 8 wickets.
- 2023: PBKS won by 7 runs (DLS Method); KKR won by 5 wickets.
- 2022: KKR won by 6 wickets.
- 2021: KKR won by 5 wickets; PBKS won by 5 wickets.
Punjab Kings: A Blend of Grit and Young Energy
PBKS has had an inspiring run in IPL 2025. Their approach under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer is fearless. Here’s what’s working for them:
- Key Additions: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Chahal (spinner)
- Top Performer: Arshdeep Singh – 14 wickets in 10 matches
- Super Striker: Priyansh Arya (PBKS)– highest strike rate (201.59)
Kolkata Knight Riders: Searching for Stability
KKR’s journey this season has been a mix of promise and pitfalls. While the squad is full of talent, execution has been inconsistent.
- Captain: Ajinkya Rahane
- Most Valuable Player: Venkatesh Iyer – 224 runs in 10 matches
- Silent Hero: Varun Chakravarthy – 13 wickets, economy of 6.15
Eden Garden: The Battleground
The Eden Gardens, with their rich history and emotional crowd, are known for high scoring matches. The average score here is around 167.45, in which teams won 40 out of 96 matches for the first time.
In particular, in matches where the first innings score was 200 or more, the team won 7 out of 9 for the first time.
Eden Garden: Home and Record house
Located in Kolkata, the Eden Garden is synonymous with Cricket Heritage. With an average first-fans of 167.45, the site is usually in favor of batsmen.
- Batting first win ratio: 40 wins in 96 matches. 200+ first innings score: Almost guarantees winning .
- Batting first and 200+ scoring has won 7 out of 9 times. Expect a high scoring thriller until the initial swing or spin is played. In the second innings, dew can also make it difficult.
Check This : Eden Gardens Average Score in IPL : Stats, Records & Why It’s a Batter’s Paradise
Team updates and players change
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
PBKS has shown a remarkable form this season, which contributes significantly to both experienced players and new talents. Shreyas Iyer’s acquisition has increased her batting lineup, while bowlers like Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal have played an important role in the recent victory.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR has so far been a mixed season. While players like Venkatesh Iyer and Varun Chakraborty have given remarkable performances, the team has faced challenges in maintaining continuity. The purpose of Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership is to pursue the team from the way the team won back.
Key Players to Watch
Punjab Kings
- Shreyas Iyer: With a recent unbeaten 97, Iyer’s leadership and batting prowess are pivotal.
- Arshdeep Singh: Leading wicket-taker for PBKS with 14 wickets in 10 matches, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
- Yuzvendra Chahal: His 4-wicket haul against KKR was crucial in defending a low total, highlighting his match-winning capabilities.
Kolkata Knight Riders
- Venkatesh Iyer: A consistent performer with 224 runs in 10 matches, his aggressive batting can change the game’s dynamics.
- Varun Chakravarthy: With 13 wickets in 9 matches and an economy rate of 6.15, his spin bowling is a significant asset for KKR.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM IST
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Broadcast: Star Sports Network and JioHotstar.
Pitch and weather reports for Eden Gardens
- Pitch type: drought with good boom, in favor of batsmen and spinners
- Weather forecast: clear sky, 29 ° C, moderate dew factors expected
- Toss Strategy: Win Toss and Chase, until the pitch is not dry enough to rescue
Some FAQS
1.Who has the better head-to-head record in PBKS vs KKR?
ANS. KKR leads the head-to-head record with 21 wins out of 34 matches. PBKS has won 13 times, but they’ve had the upper hand in recent seasons (PBKS vs KKR).
2.What is the average score at Eden Gardens in IPL?
ANS. The average first-innings score at Eden Gardens is around 167.45, favouring high-scoring games.
3.Who holds the record for the highest individual score in a PBKS vs KKR game?
ANS. Andre Russell smashed an unbeaten 113* for KKR in 2019, the highest individual score in this fixture.
4.How significant is the toss at Eden Gardens?
ANS. Teams chasing have won 58% of games at Eden Gardens in IPL, so winning the toss and opting to field can be astrategic advantage.