Synopsis
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) The Kolkata Knight Riders faced criticism from Mark Boucher after failing to chase down 112 runs against Punjab Kings, leading to a disappointing performance that saw them bowled out for just 95 runs.Key Takeaways
- Mark Boucher criticized KKR's batting strategy.
- KKR lost to PBKS by 16 runs.
- The team collapsed from 62 for 2 to 79 for 8.
- Robin Uthappa echoed Boucher's sentiments.
- KKR is now sixth in the IPL 2025 standings.
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Following the Kolkata Knight Riders' inability to secure a modest target of 112 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL match, former South African wicketkeeper and coach Mark Boucher criticized the defending champions' tactics, stating they "batted themselves into a hole."
The three-time champions were dismissed for a mere 95 runs, granting Punjab a remarkable 16-run victory while defending the lowest total in the tournament’s history.
KKR initially appeared stable during a 55-run partnership between Ajinkya Rahane (17 off 17) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (37 off 28) after a challenging start at 7/2. However, with only 50 runs required from 74 balls, the team astonishingly crumbled to 79/8, ultimately getting out in just 16 overs.
"It’s not a target like 140 or 150, nor is it just a 60-run chase. It was a target that was bound to be tricky. As a batting unit, you are expected to chase it down. I believe they batted themselves into a bit of a hole."
"They started off reasonably well after losing two wickets, yet they became overly cautious. This is quite unusual for a team that just came off a victory. I don't think the incoming batters displayed the intensity required," Boucher stated on Star Sports.
Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa shared Boucher's view, commenting, "In situations like this, targets of 111 and 112 can feel like a double-edged sword. It’s akin to needing 120 in a T20 match, which seems straightforward at 6 runs an over. However, if the batting unit doesn't kick off properly, pressure mounts quickly. I’m left stunned by this performance."
"For KKR, it was a total collapse. It felt like they faltered completely after a promising start at 62 for 2, only to end up at 79 for 8,” Uthappa remarked.
After this defeat, KKR slipped to sixth place in the IPL 2025 points table with three victories and four defeats from seven matches. They will strive to recover when they face Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on April 21.
