Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)’s must-win encounter in opposition to Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 60 of the Indian Premier League 2026 received off to a disastrous begin as Mohammed Siraj produced a peach of a supply to dismiss skipper Ajinkya Rahane at Eden Gardens on Saturday.
With KKR preventing to maintain their playoff hopes alive, the early wicket handed Gujarat Titans full management within the opening phases of the competition. Rahane, who has typically offered stability on the high for Kolkata this season, had no reply to Siraj’s good inswinger that crashed into the stumps and left the Eden Gardens crowd shocked. The dismissal additionally marked a private milestone for Siraj, because the pacer accomplished 200 wickets in T20 cricket.
Mohammed Siraj bowls a jaffa to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane
After profitable the toss, Gujarat Titans captain selected to area first on a floor anticipated to help bowlers early on. The choice instantly paid dividends as Siraj struck with tempo and precision in his very first spell. Bowling at round 138 kph, Siraj delivered a fuller ball that formed sharply again into Rahane. The KKR captain tried to whip the supply by way of the leg aspect however failed to maneuver his toes. The late inward motion beat the bat fully earlier than rattling the stumps.
Rahane’s dismissal put Kolkata underneath fast strain in a sport they merely can’t afford to lose. KKR entered the competition realizing that victories in all their remaining league matches are essential to preserve their slim playoff probabilities alive.
In the meantime, Gujarat Titans got here into the conflict sitting comfortably within the high half of the desk. A win in Kolkata would formally safe their qualification for the IPL 2026 playoffs, making the fixture equally important for each side.
Right here’s the video:
That’s an enormous breakthrough for #GT. 🤯#MohammedSiraj removes the #KKR captain and shifts the momentum early.#TATAIPL Race To Playoffs 2026 ➡️ #KKRvGT | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/CRwulMlbwZ pic.twitter.com/CUFGEv7efH
— Star Sports activities (@StarSportsIndia) May 16, 2026
Additionally READ: Ravichandran Ashwin questions Punjab Kings’ two-home venue strategy amid IPL 2026 slump
Siraj continues spectacular IPL 2026 marketing campaign
Siraj has been considered one of Gujarat Titans’ most dependable performers this season, particularly with the brand new ball. His means to generate motion at excessive tempo has troubled a number of top-order batters all through the event. The wicket of Rahane as soon as once more highlighted Siraj’s rising fame as a powerplay specialist. Extra importantly, the breakthrough gave Gujarat early momentum in a high-pressure encounter.
As quickly because the ball crashed into the stumps, Siraj celebrated passionately whereas his teammates surrounded him. Followers on social media additionally reacted shortly, praising the supply and calling it the most effective balls of the continued IPL season.
IPL 2026: Dale Steyn takes a dig at paper-note celebration trend after LSG vs CSK clash
