IPL 2025: Match 44 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Head-to-Head, Predicted XI & Winner Prediction
The 44th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will witness Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on April 26, 2025. Both teams are eyeing a crucial win to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Head-to-Head Stats
KKR and PBKS have clashed 32 times in IPL history. Out of these, Kolkata has dominated the rivalry with 21 wins, while Punjab has emerged victorious 11 times. KKR enjoys a strong home record at Eden Gardens, making them psychologically superior ahead of this clash.
Last 5 Meetings:
- KKR Wins: 3
- PBKS Wins: 2
Recent Form Overview
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):
Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR has displayed consistency throughout the tournament. With power-hitters like Rinku Singh and Andre Russell in the middle order, and a spin-heavy attack featuring Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, KKR look balanced in all departments.
Punjab Kings (PBKS):
PBKS has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks consistency. Shreyas Iyer leads a strong batting side with Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Inglis, while the bowling attack is spearheaded by Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Lockie Ferguson.
Predicted Playing XIs
Kolkata Knight Riders:
- Quinton de Kock (wk)
- Ajinkya Rahane (c)
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Rinku Singh
- Andre Russell
- Sunil Narine
- Moeen Ali
- Umran Malik
- Anrich Nortje
- Varun Chakravarthy
- Harshit Rana
Punjab Kings:
- Shreyas Iyer (c)
- Prabhsimran Singh (wk)
- Glenn Maxwell
- Marcus Stoinis
- Josh Inglis
- Shashank Singh
- Marco Jansen
- Arshdeep Singh
- Yuzvendra Chahal
- Lockie Ferguson
- Harpreet Brar
Match Prediction
Eden Gardens usually supports batsmen, but spinners also find some turn. KKR’s well-rounded spin attack could prove vital. Punjab will need a strong batting performance to counter the home advantage.
Probable Winner: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Conclusion
This fixture could play a decisive role in shaping the playoff scenario of IPL 2025. With both teams boasting several match-winners, fans can expect a thrilling contest under the lights in Kolkata.