Rinku, Anukul Script Stunning Revival as KKR Register First Win of IPL 2026

Kolkata, April 2026 : Kolkata Knight Riders finally ended their winless run in the Indian Premier League 2026 season with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday, as Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy held their nerve in a tense chase.

Pursuing a target of 156, KKR endured a nightmare start that threatened to derail their chances early. Jofra Archer struck with the very first delivery, removing Tim Seifert, while Nandre Burger followed up by dismissing captain Ajinkya Rahane for a second consecutive duck. Reduced to 2 for 2 inside two overs, the hosts were immediately on the back foot.

The collapse continued as wickets fell at regular intervals. KKR struggled to build partnerships and were left reeling at 84 for 5 by the 13th over. Cameron Green attempted to shift momentum with a brisk 27 off 13 balls, while Rovman Powell added 23. However, Rajasthan’s bowlers, led by the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja (2 for 8), ensured that scoring remained difficult during the middle overs. Debutant Yash Raj Punja also impressed, picking up a wicket and maintaining discipline after an expensive start.

At 97 for 6 in the 15th over, KKR’s hopes appeared to be fading fast. With the required run rate climbing and only the lower order remaining, the match seemed firmly in Rajasthan’s control. But what followed was a remarkable turnaround engineered by Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy.

The duo stitched together an unbeaten partnership that blended calmness with calculated aggression. Anukul injected momentum by taking on Ravi Bishnoi in the 16th over, smashing a six that shifted the pressure slightly. Rinku, who had initially struggled for fluency and even survived a dropped catch, began to find his rhythm, rotating strike smartly and punishing loose deliveries.

With 40 required off the last four overs, the pair showed excellent composure under pressure. Rinku took charge against Archer in the 17th over, ensuring the equation stayed within reach. Anukul complemented him perfectly, including a crucial six off Archer in the 18th over that tilted momentum back towards KKR.

The equation came down to 21 runs from the final two overs, setting up a tense finish. Both batters remained composed, relying on sharp running between the wickets and well-timed boundaries to keep the chase alive. Their understanding and communication were key in maintaining control during the high-pressure situation.

Needing nine runs in the final over, Rinku Singh took responsibility. Facing Brijesh Sharma, he struck two boundaries early in the over before sealing the match with a top-edged six that sailed over the wicketkeeper. The shot also brought up his unbeaten half-century (53*), sparking jubilant celebrations at Eden Gardens as KKR completed the chase with two balls to spare. Anukul Roy remained unbeaten on 29, playing the perfect supporting role.

Earlier, Rajasthan Royals posted 155 for 9 in their 20 overs. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (39) were the main contributors, but KKR’s bowlers ensured the total remained manageable. Varun Chakaravarthy (3-14) and Kartik Tyagi (3-22) were particularly effective, while Sunil Narine provided control with his economical spell.

Although KKR’s batting once again showed vulnerabilities, this victory will come as a significant morale boost after six consecutive defeats. The resilience shown by Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy not only secured two crucial points but also revived belief within the squad. As the tournament progresses, KKR will hope this hard-fought win marks the beginning of a turnaround in their campaign.

Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 155/9 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 46, Yashasvi Jaiswal 39; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-14, Kartik Tyagi 3-22) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (Rinku Singh 53*, Anukul Roy 29*; Ravindra Jadeja 2-8, Yash Punja 1-25) by four wickets.

Kolkata Knight Riders beat Rajasthan Royals by 4 wickets