IPL 2024: KKR Qualifies for Playoffs, Defeats Mumbai Indians by 18 Runs
KKR has qualified for the playoffs.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) punched their ticket to the IPL 2024 playoffs with a thumping 18-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) on Saturday. This win makes them the first team to secure a spot in the top-four with two matches remaining in the league stage.
KKR displayed strong performance throughout the season, having won nine matches in 12 games. Speaking of the game, the rain-affected match was reduced to 16 overs per side, with KKR setting a target of 158 runs for MI to chase.
Despite a promising start from MI, their batting faltered in the middle overs, leading to a collapse that ultimately resulted in them falling short of the target.
Openers Sunil Narine and Philip Salt were dismissed early for KKR, but a crucial knock of 42 runs from Venkatesh Iyer in just 21 balls ensured the momentum stayed with the home team.
KKR’s bowling attack proved too strong for MI, with Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Andre Russell claiming two wickets each and restricting MI to a score of 139 runs in their allotted 16 overs.
With this victory, KKR has cemented their place in the playoffs, while Rajasthan Royals (16 points) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (14 points) are also in a good position to qualify.
The race for the remaining playoff spot is heating up, with Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants all tied at 12 points with two matches remaining for each team. It’s likely only one of these three sides will manage to join KKR, RR, and SRH in the top-four.