KKR aim to keep playoffs dream alive against wounded Chennai

Facing a must-win situation, defending champions have their task cut out against CSK who have nothing to lose

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

Faced with a must-win situation to keep their IPL 2025 playoff hopes alive, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will look to build on the momentum received from the narrow one-run win against Rajasthan Royals, when they take on a hapless Chennai Super Kings in their final home match of the season at the Eden Gardens here on Wednesday.

With five wins and a no result from 11 outings, the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit is currently at sixth in the IPL leaderboard, and have a great chance to get a couple of more points against already-ousted five-time champions CSK, languishing at the bottom with two wins from as many outings.

The road to the IPL playoffs isn't going to be a cakewalk for the home side, as they not only need to win every game while maintaining a good NRR but would also be dependent on other results. With Gujarat Titans (14 points) and Delhi Capitals (13 points) already ahead of them, KKR will need to back themselves up to not only pick the six points on offer, but also at a better rate.