IPL 2024: KKR Qualifies For IPL Playoffs After Beating Hardik’s Mumbai Indians

Shreyas Iyer’s Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) etched their name as the first franchise to secure a playoff berth in this season’s Indian Premier League, triumphing over former champions Mumbai Indians in a thrilling encounter on Saturday (May 11) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

In a rain-shortened 16-overs spectacle, Kolkata displayed resilience to post 157/7, propelled by impactful contributions from Venkatesh Iyer (42 off 21), Nitish Rana (33 off 23), and explosive cameos by Andre Russel (24 off 14) and Rinku Singh (17 off 8).

Mumbai Indians launched a promising run chase, spearheaded by Rohit Sharma (19 off 24) and Ishan Kishan (40 off 22), who forged a 65-run partnership for the first wicket.

However, despite the promising start, Mumbai Indians faltered as Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Andre Russel scalped two wickets each, containing the Men in Blue to 139/8 in 16 overs.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad find themselves comfortably positioned, likely contenders for playoff berths.

In contrast, a fierce battle ensues among Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, and Delhi Capitals, all tied with 12 points each, vying for a solitary spot in the playoffs.

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