The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are set to clash in the sixth match of the Indian Premier League 2026 season on April 2. KKR, led by the experienced Ajinkya Rahane, return to their iconic home ground desperate for a win after a tough opening loss to the Mumbai Indians.
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad, captained by Ishan Kishan (stepping in for Pat Cummins), are also looking to open their account following a defeat against the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
The historic Eden Gardens is prepared for a high-scoring encounter, featuring the highly anticipated home debut of KKR’s record signing Cameron Green and a star-studded SRH top order led by Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma.
Both sides are in the hunt to open their account, and it promises to be a mega contest.
For Rahane, this is a special game. He is set to become the 11th player in IPL history to make 200 appearances.
What is the H2H record between KKR and SRH?
Historically, this rivalry has been dominated by the Kolkata Knight Riders. In 30 head-to-head meetings, KKR have won 20 matches (including 1 Super Over win), while SRH have secured 10 victories. KKR’s dominance is even more pronounced at Eden Gardens, where they have beaten SRH 8 times in 11 encounters.
KKR also hold the momentum of winning four of the last five matches against the Orange Army, including the 2024 IPL final.
Probable XI of both teams
KKR probable XI
Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Blessing Muzarabani, Varun Chakaravarthy. (Impact: Kartik Tyagi).
SRH probable XI
Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (c & wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Aniket Verma, Liam Livingstone, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshal Patel, Harsh Dubey, Brydon Carse, Jaydev Unadkat. (Impact: David Payne).
Eden Gardens Stadium, Kolkata & Key Details
Established in 1864, Eden Gardens is India’s oldest cricket stadium and is often hailed as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket.” Following its 2011 renovation, it has a seating capacity of 68,000. The stadium features 66–68 square meters of boundaries and 76–78 meter straight boundaries, making it one of the more balanced yet high-scoring venues in the league. It remains KKR’s ultimate fortress, where they have recorded 54 IPL victories.
What is the Pitch like at the Eden Gardens?
The Eden Gardens pitch has evolved from a spin-bowling haven into one of the best batting tracks in the country. The surface is generally flat with a true bounce, allowing batters to play their shots with confidence.
While KKR has historically relied on their “spin-twin” duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, the modern Eden track often assists pace bowlers early on, especially with the new ball, which may find some swing due to the proximity of the Hooghly River.
Dew is a significant factor in Kolkata during April. Chasing teams have a historical advantage here, having won 57 out of 100 IPL matches at this venue. Captains winning the toss almost always opt to bowl first to avoid the difficulty of gripping a wet ball in the second innings. A par score of 200 is expected, with anything less likely to be chased down comfortably given the explosive batting lineups of both sides.
Key Stats & Records at the Eden Gardens
262/2 by Punjab Kings vs KKR (2024) is the highest team total here. KKR scored 261/6 in that contest.
RCB’s 49 against KKR is the lowest team total at this venue. KKR own the 3rd-lowest total here (97/9).
Among active batters, KKR’s Sunil Narine leads the show with 698 runs. Narine holds the record for the most wickets (72) at an impressive economy rate of 6.53.
Rahane, who has played for a host of teams in the IPL, owns 514 runs at Eden Gardens. His average is 32.12 with the help of 4 fifties.
KKR vs SRH: Weather Forecast
As per reports, Kolkata is expected to be clear for the match. Today’s forecast for Kolkata shows a high of 37°C and a low of 26°C. During match hours, the temperature will settle around 26°C with high humidity of 85%. Winds will be coming from the southwest at 7 mph. There is a 0% chance of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted game.
KKR vs SRH: Pitch Advantage for Which Side?
The pitch offers a slight advantage to the side batting second due to the high humidity and expected dew. KKR’s familiarity with the dimensions and the crowd’s energy gives them a “12th man” edge. However, the flat deck is a massive boost for SRH’s “triple-threat” opening combination of Head, Abhishek, and Kishan, who thrive on true bounce. The outcome will likely depend on whether KKR’s spinners can rediscover their “bite” or if SRH’s experienced Indian seamers can contain KKR’s finishers.
FAQs – Pitch Report for Eden Gardens Stadium
What is the pitch report for Eden Gardens?
Expect a batter-friendly, sporting track with true bounce. It is conducive to high-scoring games, though new-ball bowlers may find early movement. Dew will make chasing the preferred strategy.
Who is the captain for KKR?
Ajinkya Rahane is leading the Kolkata Knight Riders for the 2026 season.
Is Pat Cummins playing?
No, SRH skipper Pat Cummins is currently ruled out as he recovers from a lingering injury; Ishan Kishan is leading the side in his absence.
What is the par score at Eden Gardens?
Given the current conditions and the power-hitters in both squads, a competitive par score is around 200–210.
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