IPL 2025: Mitchell Marsh’s 80+ helps LSG cross 200 as KKR bowlers struggle badly — fans say ‘leave Kolkata now’

In today’s IPL 2025 clash at Eden Gardens, Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane chose to bowl first against Lucknow Super Giants. Spencer Johnson came in for Moeen Ali as KKR’s only change, while LSG stuck with their winning combination from their previous match against Mumbai Indians. Both teams were tied at four points from four games, making the two points up for grabs crucial. But as the match progressed, KKR’s decision to bowl looked increasingly questionable.

Four overs, four nightmares: 16 runs each

Mitchell Marsh, nearing a century, dominated the innings with Nicholas Pooran by his side. What followed was a string of brutal overs that saw KKR leak 16 runs in each of four consecutive overs. Sunil Narine was out first, followed by Varun Chakaravarthy and then Spencer Johnson, who conceded boundaries to both Pooran and Marsh. The onslaught pushed LSG beyond 154 runs in no time, with Marsh already past the 75-run mark and showing no signs of slowing down before he got out for 81 by Andre Russell.?

Trolling rains on KKR after Eden Gardens collapse

The dismal bowling performance triggered heavy backlash on social media. One user bluntly wrote, “100% KKR gonna lose this, after today’s 0% efforts bowling.”?

Another estimated a massive total, predicting “186=108 is easy. 154+108=262. Close to 270 is easily achievable,”?and expected a poor start from KKR’s batters in return. A third user vented strongly, “KKR should leave Kolkata. This needs to be serious.”

Even the decision-making wasn’t spared. Former skipper Anjum Chopra raised eyebrows at Rahane’s call to bowl first. Fans echoed that sentiment, with one sarcastic user noting, “Finally captain Ajinkya Rahane realises Andre Russell can bowl.”?

Meanwhile, another viewer added a humorous touch by posting, “LSG owner dancing after the good start against KKR. AI stuff.”

Bowling decisions and strategy under fire

Rahane’s captaincy and rotation of bowlers drew sharp criticism. While LSG’s unchanged XI looked solid and well-coordinated, KKR’s bowling choices, especially holding back Andre Russell till later, baffled fans. With batters like Marsh and Pooran going full throttle, the delayed use of key bowlers added to the agony.

KKR’s bowling collapse at Eden has left fans frustrated and the team’s tactics under serious scrutiny after four back-to-back big overs.

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