Kolkata Knight Riders will be hosting their first home game against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Eden Gardens, Kolkata just moments from now. It promises to be an exciting encounter as KKR would like to start their home games with a win against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL 2023.
KKR will be playing their first home game at Kolkata after a gap of 4 years. Eden Gardens, Kolkata hosted the playoff matches in 2022 but could not KKR. A packed crowd is expected to cheer the KKR team. Nitish Rana led side lost the opening encounter against Punjab Kings just by 7 runs via DLS method on 1 April 2023.
Andre Russell, who has been part of memorable victories for KKR at the Eden Gardens, said there is no lack of motivation when he puts on the KKR jersey but that the feeling of playing in front of thousands of fans cheering for them is “special”.
“IPL is all about playing in front of your home team, home ground, and home fans. It’s been a few years since we have had this environment. I am happy and ready to go. Hopefully, we can get the ball rolling and start well,” Russell said.
KKR looking for the first points
Kolkata Knight Riders would be looking for their first points of Indian Premier League season 16. After opting to field first, KKR bowlers conceded 191 for 5 in 20 overs. While chasing down the target, Andre Russell looked in great touch along with Venetaksh Iyer who provided some resistance to KKR.
KKR lost two quick wickets before the rain arrived with the scoreboard reading 146 for 7. Andre Russell has a great record against RCB with 160 runs from 72 deliveries with 15 sixes and 12 fours.
KKR signed Jason Roy but is unlikely to feature in the playing XI. The onus will be on the openers to provide an explosive start and lay a foundation for Andre Russell and Co to smash big shots giving the home crowd to cheer.
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