IPL 2025: KKR faces must-win clash against CSK

Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Chennai Super Kings in match number 57 of IPL 2025 on Wednesday at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This is a must-win game for KKR, who are still in the race for a playoff spot. They come into the contest after edging out Rajasthan Royals by a single run. Chennai, on the other hand, are out of contention, but will want to finish their season positively under MS Dhoni’s leadership.

KKR’s playoff hopes depend on winning streak

With five wins and five losses, Kolkata Knight Riders are currently sixth on the points table. The team has gathered momentum with back-to-back wins and needs to win all of their remaining matches to qualify. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane will be looking to continue the team’s winning form at their home ground.

In their last game, KKR held their nerve to beat Rajasthan Royals by just one run. The narrow victory helped them stay in the hunt. With the tournament heading into its final phase, every match is critical for teams still fighting for a spot in the top four.

CSK play for pride after early exit

Chennai Super Kings find themselves at the bottom of the points table with just three wins from eleven matches. They were officially knocked out of playoff contention after a 2-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Despite their early exit, CSK will look to end their season with some positives.

Led by the experienced MS Dhoni, Chennai might use the remaining matches to test their bench and give opportunities to different players. The focus could also be on giving fans some strong performances to end the campaign.

Pitch and weather at Eden favour big scores

The Eden Gardens pitch has favoured batters this season, with an average first-innings total of 203. Four of the five games at the venue have been won by teams batting first. The surface may also provide some help to spinners as the match progresses.

Weather-wise, conditions will be humid and cloudy, with the temperature starting at around 31°C and dipping slightly as the evening sets in. Rain is not expected, which means fans can look forward to a full game.

Fans build up the hype online

Social media is already buzzing ahead of the contest. One user pointed out team combination issues, saying, “Anrich Nortje in for Moeen Ali. Ajinkya Rahane should really understand that he can only bring his best for the side as the opener. He is really very weak against the spin bowling post-PPs.”

Another fan focused on Chennai’s tactical choices: “MS has only spinners issue currently... When there is Dube, they don’t try to attack by dropping the spinners... Dhoni can still handle pacers.”

Ms have only spinners issue currently.. If he with dube in crease... When there is dubbe, they don't try to attack by dropping the spinners... Dhoni can still handle pacers

Btw next year urvil in opening position less chance
Ayush
Conway
Rutu
Almost set in top

— Bilal John (@BilalJohn2021) May 7, 2025

A third user summed up the stakes simply: “KKR VS CSK LOADING AT THE EDEN GARDENS… it’s a do or d!e situation.”

KKR VS CSK LOADING AT THE EDEN GARDENS.. its do or d!e situation

— Ankit (@Ankit6994576100) May 7, 2025

With the playoff race heating up, KKR will fight to stay alive, while CSK aim to spoil the party and finish strong.

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