IPL 2025 Clash – KKR vs LSG: Playing XI Predictions, Stats to Watch & Player Duels

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to host Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 21 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The exciting encounter will take place on Tuesday, April 8, at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Both teams have had similar starts to the season, each securing two wins and suffering two defeats from their first four games.

KKR's Form and Leadership Under Ajinkya Rahane

The defending champions, KKR, have had a roller-coaster journey in IPL 2025 so far. Under the new leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the team has shown glimpses of brilliance, particularly in their most recent match—a dominant 80-run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, inconsistency continues to plague them as their two losses were quite heavy.

Ajinkya Rahane’s Captaincy Record in IPL 2025:

• Matches: 4

• Wins: 2

• Losses: 2

• Win Percentage: 50%

LSG’s Mixed Start and Rishabh Pant’s Struggles

LSG, led by Rishabh Pant, also have a 50% win record from their opening four games. Their latest outing saw them edge out Mumbai Indians by 12 runs in a high-scoring thriller at Wankhede. However, Pant's own form with the bat has been underwhelming, and he will be under pressure to deliver in this clash.

Rishabh Pant’s Captaincy Record in IPL 2025:

• Matches: 4

• Wins: 2

• Losses: 2

• Win Percentage: 50%

Probable Playing XI – KKR vs LSG

KKR Probable XI:

Quinton de Kock (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Moeen Ali, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

LSG Probable XI:

Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (wk/c), Ayush Badoni, David Miller, Abdul Samad, Shardul Thakur, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Akash Deep, Avesh Khan

Key Player Battles to Watch in KKR vs LSG

Quinton de Kock vs Avesh Khan

De Kock's aggressive starts will be tested by Avesh Khan’s sharp pace and bounce. This battle in the powerplay could set the tone for KKR’s innings.

Sunil Narine vs Ravi Bishnoi

A clash of spin wizards—Narine’s explosive intent could clash head-on with Bishnoi’s variations and guile in the middle overs.

Rinku Singh vs Shardul Thakur

Rinku, known for his match-finishing abilities, will face a stern test against Thakur’s deceptive slower balls and experience in death overs.

Mitchell Marsh vs Varun Chakaravarthy

Marsh loves taking on spin, but Varun’s mystery spin can make life difficult in the middle overs with tight lines and variations.

Nicholas Pooran vs Harshit Rana

Pooran’s attacking flair in the death overs will be up against Harshit Rana’s disciplined bowling—expect fireworks late in the innings.

Andre Russell vs Digvesh Singh Rathi

Russell's explosive finish can be neutralised if Rathi nails his slower deliveries and yorkers under pressure.

Venue Insights – Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Eden Gardens is known for its true bounce and high-scoring matches. Both teams will look to leverage the conditions—KKR with their spin duo and LSG with their top-heavy batting unit. The toss could play a crucial role, with chasing often favoured under lights.

Match Outlook

With both teams locked on four points, this match holds significant importance in the mid-season IPL standings. KKR will hope to make the most of their home advantage, while LSG will bank on their explosive middle order to deliver another close win.