KKR batsmen Rinku Singh and Ajinkya Rahane on the eve of the IPL T20 Match against Delhi Capitals at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on May 23, 2026.
| Photo Credit: R.V. Moorthy
Kolkata Knight Riders will look to continue its late resurgence when it hosts Delhi Capitals in the final league fixture of IPL 2026 at Eden Gardens on Sunday (May 23, 2026).
Although both sides remain alive mathematically in the race for the final playoff spot, qualification is no longer in their hands. KKR, having earned 13 points from as many matches, and DC, with 12 points, must win but have to rely on other outcomes. Rajasthan Royals will seal a top-four berth if it defeats the already eliminated Mumbai Indians in the afternoon clash.
While there is uncertainty, the Kolkata franchise enters the contest with renewed confidence courtesy a remarkable turnaround in form. The three-time champion has won six of its last seven games after struggling in the first half of the campaign.
The revival has ignited hopes of an unlikely playoff push and restored momentum at a crucial stage of the tournament. However, injuries have continued to test the squad’s depth, particularly in the bowling department.
Even so, KKR has managed to overcome the setbacks commendably, thanks largely to the strong performances of Sunil Narine, Varun Chakaravarthy and Saurabh Dubey, who have stepped up impressively with the ball.
Adding to the concerns is the absence of its leading run-scorer. Angkrish Raghuvanshi, the wicketkeeper-batter who has been ruled out due to concussion and fracture on his left-hand finger. His unavailability leaves a significant gap in the batting order ahead of a must-win encounter.
As for the Axar Patel-led DC, it will hope to end a tough season on a positive note. The away side is expected to have its work cut out, as the host will be eager to sign off with a statement performance in front of a passionate Eden crowd.
Published – May 23, 2026 09:48 pm IST
