Finn Allen Shines as KKR Defeats GT to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

In a thrilling IPL match, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured a 29-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT), thanks to Finn Allen's explosive 93 runs. Allen praised the Eden Gardens pitch for rewarding good cricket, while also sharing his strategic approach to batting. The match saw impressive performances from both teams, with KKR's bowlers shining in the end. This win keeps KKR's playoff hopes alive as they continue to fight for a top-four finish. Discover more about the match details and player insights in the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2026, 09:31 IST

KKR's Victory Over GT

After securing a win against the Gujarat Titans (GT), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Finn Allen shared insights about batting at Eden Gardens, emphasizing that the pitch rewards 'good cricket' once players adapt to the initial seam movement and bounce.

Match Highlights

With impressive performances from Allen, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, and a strong bowling display, KKR triumphed over GT by 29 runs, keeping their playoff aspirations alive. Allen, who previously scored a century against Delhi Capitals (DC), delivered a remarkable 93 runs off just 35 balls, featuring four boundaries and ten sixes.

Finn Allen's Thoughts on Eden Gardens

In the post-match press conference, Allen remarked on the Kolkata wicket, stating, 'The wickets probably have not been as flat as I expected at the start, but I think they reward good cricket. If you get into good positions early and handle the seam movement and bounce, you get rewarded. It's a great place to play cricket -- the crowd is fantastic, and it is a great group of guys, so I am really enjoying it.'

Allen's Performance Stats

Throughout the tournament, Allen has accumulated 321 runs in nine matches, averaging 40.12 with a striking rate of 221.37. His performance includes a century and a fifty, with a total of 28 fours and 27 sixes from 145 balls faced, achieving a boundary every 2.6 balls.

Strategic Approach to Batting

Allen noted the initial challenges of the wicket, particularly with GT's top bowlers, Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, bowling during the powerplay. He explained, 'My plan was to hit the balls that were there to score off and, if not, just get off strike and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Once Jinx (Ajinkya Rahane) got out, I knew I had to take a bit more responsibility and stay there for a long time.'

KKR vs GT Match Recap

In the match, GT chose to bowl first, and KKR capitalized on this decision. After Rahane's early dismissal (14 runs), Allen and Raghuvanshi formed a formidable partnership, scoring 95 runs together. Following Allen's exit, Raghuvanshi secured his fifth fifty of the season, contributing to a 108-run partnership with Cameron Green (52* off 28 balls), leading KKR to a total of 247/2 in 20 overs. Raghuvanshi finished with an unbeaten 82* off 44 balls, including four boundaries and seven sixes.

GT's Run Chase

During GT's chase, Sai Sudharsan had to retire hurt early on. However, skipper Shubman Gill (85 off 49 balls) and Jos Buttler (57 off 35 balls) formed a solid 128-run partnership. Unfortunately, after their dismissals, GT struggled to maintain the required run rate, concluding their innings at 218/4 in 20 overs. Sunil Narine was the standout bowler for KKR, taking 2 wickets for 29 runs and earning the 'Player of the Match' title.

Current Standings

As it stands, GT is positioned second with eight wins and five losses, totaling 16 points. KKR, on the other hand, is in seventh place with five wins, six losses, and one no result, accumulating 11 points.