Date: April 21, 2025
Time: 19:30 (local time)
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
It’s almost crunch time in the IPL, and the action heads to Eden Gardens where the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) host the high-flying Gujarat Titans (GT). With playoff places on the line, both teams will be desperate for the win – but who’s got the momentum?
The Story So Far
KKR, the defending champions, have had a shaky title defense. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, consistency remains an issue. On the other hand, Gujarat Titans have started the season with confidence, winning four of their first five matches.
Their last meeting? A rain-out back in May 2024 – meaning both sides are still waiting to settle the score.
Odds Snapshot (via BetWinner)
- KKR (Home): 18/25 (1.72) – 58.1% win probability
- GT (Away): 28/25 (2.12) – 47.2% win probability
Odds subject to change
Head-to-Head (Last 4 Completed Games)
- GT won by 7 wickets (April 2023)
- KKR won by 3 wickets (April 2023)
- GT won by 8 runs (April 2022)
- May 2024 fixture was abandoned due to rain
Players to Watch
Kolkata Knight Riders
- Ajinkya Rahane – Scored 61 off 35 in a recent close loss to Lucknow. His form at the top could set the tone.
- Harshit Rana – A key fast bowler with attacking instincts. Needs to control his economy.
- Venkatesh Iyer – Contributing with both bat and ball. His presence in the middle order could be vital.
Gujarat Titans
- Sai Sudharshan – Leading from the front with an explosive 82 against Rajasthan.
- Prasidh Krishna – Claimed three wickets in the same match and brings pace and control.
- Jos Buttler – The experienced Englishman can control an innings even when not scoring at his fastest.
Predicted XIs
Kolkata Knight Riders:
Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (capt), Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Spencer Johnson, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora
Gujarat Titans:
Sai Sudharshan, Shubman Gill (capt), Jos Buttler, Sherfane Rutherford, Rahul Tewatia, M Shahrukh Khan, Sai Kishore, Rashid Khan, Arshad Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
Betting Picks
Suggested Bet:
First Ball of the Match – 1 Run
Both teams are likely to start cautiously, with a single run a strong possibility.
Odds: 21/10 with BetWinner
Value Bet:
Total Runs Odd – Yes
With both teams loaded with power hitters, an odd total could be the result.
Odds: 69/100 with Betandyou
Prediction: KKR to Edge It
Gujarat Titans have been impressive this season, but Eden Gardens is a tough place to visit. With KKR needing a statement win and playing at home, they may just have enough to tip the balance in their favor. Expect a close contest, but we’re backing the defending champs to come through.