IPL 2025: Ajay Jadeja Predicts KKR’s Playoff Hopes: ‘Win Three Out of Four Games and They Still Have a Chance’

April 27, 2025: Former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja has expressed optimism for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) despite their struggling form in the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With seven points from nine matches, the defending champions are at a critical juncture in the tournament, needing a string of victories to keep their hopes of progressing alive.

KKR’s title defence has been underwhelming so far, with inconsistent performances leading to a drop in the standings. However, Jadeja believes there is still hope for the team if they can go on a winning spree in their remaining fixtures. According to him, a run of three wins out of their last four games could keep them in contention for a top-four spot. He noted that while winning all their remaining games might be challenging due to the unpredictable nature of the IPL, the team still has a chance to turn things around.

“I think, if KKR gets to win three out of four games, they would believe that they still have a chance. I think any side would. When it’s four out of four, then it gets really tough because of this format,” Jadeja said during an appearance on JioHotstar.

The Knight Riders’ recent fixture against Punjab Kings, which was washed out due to rain, provided a small glimmer of hope. Although KKR missed out on the opportunity to claim two valuable points, they still earned a point, which could prove crucial in their playoff race. Jadeja pointed out that while KKR would be happier with one point instead of none, the result was disappointing for Punjab, who would have been expecting a victory.

While the match didn’t produce a result, there were still moments of individual brilliance, particularly from Punjab’s uncapped stars, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh. Arya and Prabhsimran were instrumental in Punjab’s powerful start, posting a daunting 120-run opening partnership. Arya played a blazing knock of 69 runs from 36 balls, while Prabhsimran’s 83 off 49 balls helped Punjab reach 201/4.

Jadeja praised both young players for their maturity and ability to shift gears according to the situation. “He (Prabhsimran) had really good power. His strike rate was sort of sitting and hovering in that 120 to 130 category for some time. There was also really good partnership building between him and Priyansh. Prabhsimran then just put his foot to the floor, and all of a sudden, he started to get his power release shots going — big shots, square of the wicket, down the ground,” said former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden, analyzing Prabhsimran’s performance.

He also appreciated Priyansh Arya for his controlled aggression and ability to play smartly, which allowed him to build an innings in a more measured way. “He played the way he should have. He managed to shift gears again today — pulled his gear back when needed. It’s not that he can only go one way. That would give him a lot of confidence,” Jadeja said.

While the rain-shortened game didn’t offer much for KKR, Jadeja remains hopeful that the team can capitalize on their remaining matches. With the squad still possessing considerable talent, Jadeja emphasized the importance of belief and finding momentum in the upcoming fixtures.