Dissecting KKR's 32-run loss to CSK in match 22 of IPL 2026
Ajinkya Rahane and Sunil Narine (Source: Getty Images)
Published - 15 Apr 2026, 08:36 AM• Read time - 2 mins
The 2026 Indian Premier League is off to a nightmarish start for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who have lost four of their first five matches. Their latest setback came against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk, where they went down by 32 runs on April 14.
Constant shuffling of the batting order
KKR stuck with the opening pair of Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen for their first four games. However, against CSK, they promoted Sunil Narine to open alongside Allen, a move that triggered a ripple effect throughout the batting order. Their INR 25‑crore signing, Cameron Green, was pushed down to No. 6.
Such frequent reshuffling leads to a lack of role clarity and creates confusion in the dugout, often translating into inconsistent performances on the field.
Lack of intent in the powerplay
Despite losing skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad early at 25/1 in 2.2 overs, CSK batted with aggression and finished the powerplay at 72/2. In contrast, KKR managed only half that tally, leaving themselves behind the eight ball from the outset.
Batting collapse in the middle overs
Chasing 193, KKR needed to accelerate through the middle overs while preserving wickets. Instead, they lost four wickets while scoring just 84 runs. CSK offered chances in the field, but KKR failed to capitalise, deepening their woes. Left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad got grip and turn out of the Chepauk surface in the second innings, and he proved hard to put away by KKR.
Boundary count
KKR’s lack of intent was most evident in the boundary count. While they struck eight sixes, just one fewer than CSK, they managed only 10 fours compared to CSK’s 18. The difference proved decisive; CSK amassed 126 runs in boundaries, whereas KKR could muster only 88.
The KKR team management, skipper Rahane, and the players need to introspect and iron out their flaws as matches are coming thick and fast. They'll now travel to Ahmedabad to take on Gujarat Titans on April 17 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. If KKR fail to hit the reset button soon, then they might see their playoff hopes evaporating in front of their eyes.
