KKR vs PBKS: IPL 2026 Match Preview and Key Stats

As the Kolkata Knight Riders prepare to take on the Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens, the stakes are high for both teams in the IPL 2026 season. KKR seeks to bounce back from two consecutive losses, while PBKS aims to maintain their unbeaten streak. This article delves into the match details, historical encounters, and predictions, highlighting key statistics that could influence the outcome. Will KKR find their footing, or will PBKS continue their winning momentum? Read on for an in-depth analysis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 6, 2026, 08:12 IST

Match Preview: KKR vs PBKS

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to face off against the Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Monday, April 6, amidst concerns of rain affecting the match. This encounter is crucial for both teams in the ongoing 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. KKR has had a rocky start, suffering two consecutive losses. Their latest defeat came against the Mumbai Indians, where they failed to defend a formidable total of 220, ultimately losing by five wickets. Additionally, they faced a heavy defeat at home against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, losing by 65 runs.

Historically, the last two matches between these teams have been memorable. In 2025, PBKS managed to defend the lowest score in IPL history at Mullanpur, while in 2024, they achieved the highest successful chase in T20 cricket at Eden Gardens. Their previous encounter at this venue was marred by rain, resulting in a no-result after just one over of the second innings, with both teams sharing points. Today's match also carries a risk of rain interruptions.

Match Details: KKR vs PBKS IPL 2026

Toss Time: 7:00 PM IST
Match Time: 7:30 PM IST
Head-to-Head Statistics

Data	KKR	PBKS
Matches Played	35	35
Wins	21	13
Losses	13	21
No Result	1	1
Wins at Eden Gardens	9 out of 14	4 out of 14
Highest Score	261	262
Lowest Score	95	111
Most Runs	Gautam Gambhir (492)	Wriddhiman Saha (322)
Most Wickets	Sunil Narine (36)	Arshdeep Singh (11)
Highest Individual Score	Manish Pandey (94 in 2014)	Wriddhiman Saha (115 in 2014)
Best Bowling Figures	Sunil Narine (5-19 in 2012)	Sandeep Sharma (4-25 in 2015)

Match Predictions: The Punjab Kings are currently favored to win, having remained unbeaten in the tournament and carrying a wave of confidence after finishing as runners-up last season. In contrast, KKR is struggling without a win and is low on morale following a disappointing eighth-place finish last year.