IPL 2026: Why KKR can beat LSG at Eden Gardens
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders are set to host Lucknow Super Giants in Match 15 of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) at the iconic Eden Gardens. After losing two successive games, KKR finally bagged their first point after their match against Punjab Kings was washed out due to rain. Meanwhile, LSG won their last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The Knight Riders would be eager for their first win.
Context
Why does this story matter?
KKR have had a disappointing start to IPL 2026, losing their first two games. And their last match against PBKS (home) was washed out. They entered the PBKS match without Varun Chakravarthy (injury) and Sunil Narine (illness). Expect the spin duo to bounce back. Meanwhile, LSG registered their first win of the season by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by five wickets. They chased down 157, with Rishabh Pant playing a match-winning knock.
Allen
Fin Allen could batter LSG
KKR opener Finn Allen is one breakout knock away from entering the run-scoring tally. He showed his blistering starts against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians. Although swing perturbed him against PBKS in the run-affected game, Allen can single-handedly tear the opposition apart. The Kiwi opener only has to crack the Mohammed Shami code in the Powerplay. He could be unstoppable thereafter.
Information
Will Rahane fire against Shami?
KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane would back himself against a fired-up Shami. According to ESPNcricinfo, Rahane has a strike rate of 164.91 against the Indian speedster in nine IPL innings. And Shami is yet to dismiss Rahane.
Spin
Spin against Pant and Pooran
KKR spinners would fancy their chances against two left-handers - Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran. According to Cricbuzz, Pant has struck at only 117.12 against spin since IPL 2024. And Pooran has been in a downward spiral in general. He averages 13.44 in his last nine T20 innings. However, Pooran has a solid strike rate against both Narine (134.02) and Chakravarthy (165.21).