Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock revealed that the team’s decision to field an additional spinner against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their recent Indian Premier League (IPL) clash was based on their understanding of the pitch conditions. KKR’s strategic move paid off as their spinners played a crucial role in restricting CSK to a below-par total before securing a comfortable victory.

Speaking after the match, de Kock explained, "We had a good read on the conditions and knew that the pitch would assist the spinners as the game progressed. The coaching staff and the think tank felt that an extra spinner would give us an advantage, and it worked out well for us." KKR included both Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy in the playing XI, along with all-rounder Anukul Roy, to exploit the slow and turning track at Eden Gardens.

CSK, batting first, struggled against KKR’s spin trio, managing only 145/8 in their 20 overs. Narine was particularly economical, conceding just 18 runs in his four overs while picking up a wicket, while Chakaravarthy claimed two crucial scalps. De Kock praised the bowlers for executing their plans perfectly, saying, "The spinners did a fantastic job. They kept the pressure on and didn’t allow CSK’s batters to break free."

In response, KKR chased down the target with ease, thanks to a composed half-century from skipper Shreyas Iyer and a quickfire 40 from de Kock himself. The South African opener acknowledged that the pitch slowed down considerably in the second innings, making stroke play difficult, but credited the team’s adaptability. "It wasn’t the easiest wicket to bat on, but we had a clear plan to take it deep and then accelerate. The experience of playing on such surfaces helped," he added.

The victory strengthened KKR’s position in the IPL 2025 points table, while CSK’s struggles against spin raised questions about their middle-order approach. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that his team fell short by at least 20-30 runs, citing difficulties in reading the spinners. "We knew it would turn, but KKR’s bowlers were very disciplined. We’ll have to come back stronger in the next game," he said.

With the tournament reaching its business end, KKR’s tactical flexibility and effective use of spin could prove vital in their quest for a third IPL title. Meanwhile, CSK will need to reassess their strategy against spin-heavy attacks as they aim to stay in playoff contention.

Brief Scores:
CSK: 145/8 in 20 overs (Rahane 35, Chakaravarthy 2/24)
KKR: 148/4 in 18.3 overs (Iyer 54*, de Kock 40)
Result: KKR won by 6 wickets.