KKR’s hard work secures 29-run win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026

Sandy Verma

Tezzbuzz|17-05-2026

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all-rounder Sunil Narine attributed the team’s success to diligent effort and consistent preparation following their commanding 29-run victory over the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Saturday night.

Narine praised his teammates and expressed confidence in sustaining their winning form in future games irrespective of the tournament. Contributions from Finn Allen, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and Cameron Green with the bat, alongside Narine’s bowling performance, helped secure the win.

“I think it comes with hard work. I think the guys have been preparing very well. I think we have been putting in the hard yards, so it’s showing. So hopefully we can continue and just continue winning cricket games no matter what the tournament has in store for us,” Narine said after the match.

The victory coincided with a personal milestone for Narine, who became the first overseas cricketer and the 13th player overall to reach 200 IPL appearances. Reflecting on his 200th IPL match, Narine called it a blessing and hoped to continue performing strongly for many more seasons.

“Hopefully, I play many more. I think it’s a blessing. It’s something that has gone a long way, and it’s a long journey, and the journey continues. So hopefully I can continue bringing these sorts of performances and playing as long as possible,” he added.

KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane commended the team’s overall performance, highlighting the explosive batting display from Finn Allen, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and Cameron Green, alongside effective bowling from Saurabh Dubey and Kartik Tyagi. Rahane emphasized the importance of trusting the players’ abilities and expressed satisfaction with the win.

Allen scored a blistering 93 runs off 35 balls, Raghuvanshi contributed a fluent 82 off 44 deliveries, and Green added an unbeaten 52 runs off 28 balls, helping KKR post a formidable total of 247.

“Very good game. Really happy with two points. Tired – it was humid inside, but really happy. The way we started with the bat, losing the toss and then put into bat. Amazing to see Finn Allen, Angkrish and Cameron Green’s knocks. That partnership. That intent. And every single time, putting quality bowlers under pressure. It was amazing. So credit goes to these batters,” Rahane said.

“And also when we were bowling, the new guy, Saurabh Dubey, has been fantastic. Kartik has been really good. So overall, I thought it was a fantastic effort from the bowling unit. It’s all about trusting their ability,” he added.