Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). you have to win the match against Gujarat Titans (GT) In his 60th match Indian Premier League 2026 It started as disastrous Muhammad Siraj the skipper produced a peach to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane on Saturday at Eden Gardens.
The opening wicket gave Gujarat Titans complete control in the opening stages of the contest as KKR struggled to keep their playoff hopes alive. Rahane, who has often provided stability for Kolkata this season, had no answer to Siraj’s brilliant over which hit the stumps and stunned the Eden Gardens crowd. The dismissal also marked a personal milestone for Siraj as the pacer reached 200 wickets in T20 cricket.
Mohammed Siraj hits a jaffa to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane
After winning the toss, the Gujarat Titans captain chose to field first on a surface that was expected to help the bowlers. The decision paid immediate dividends as Siraj struck quickly and accurately in his first spell. Siraj, who was bowling at around 138 kmph, bowled a fuller ball back to Rahane. The KKR skipper tried to flick the delivery past leg but failed to move his legs. A late inward drive completely beat the bat before it rattled the stumps.
Rahane’s dismissal put Kolkata under immediate pressure in a game they simply could not afford to lose. KKR entered the competition knowing that wins in all their remaining league matches were essential to keep their slim playoff chances alive.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans went into the clash sitting comfortably in the top half of the table. A win in Kolkata will officially secure their place in the playoffs of IPL 2026 and this match will be equally important for both the sides.
We present the video:
This is a huge improvement for #GT. 🤯#MohammedSiraj gets rid of #KKR captain and changes pace early.#TATAIPL Race to the Playoffs 2026 ➡️ #KKRvGT | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/CRwulMlbwZ pic.twitter.com/CUFGEv7efH
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 16, 2026
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Siraj continues his impressive IPL 2026 campaign
Siraj has been one of the most reliable performers for Gujarat Titans this season, especially with the new ball. His ability to generate movement at high tempo has troubled several top players throughout the tournament. Rahane’s wicket further underlined Siraj’s growing reputation as a powerplay specialist. More importantly, the bounce gave Gujarat early momentum in a high-pressure encounter.
As soon as the ball hit the stumps, Siraj celebrated passionately as his teammates surrounded him. Fans on social media were also quick to react, praising the delivery and calling it one of the best balls of the ongoing IPL season.
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