IPL 2025: Rahane Praises Moeen Ali’s Match-Winning Spell as KKR Beat RR in Style

Kolkata Knight Riders captain hails Moeen’s impact with the ball despite low batting score; de Kock’s unbeaten 97* seals eight-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati

Guwahati, March 27:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Ajinkya Rahane showered praise on Moeen Ali for his outstanding bowling display in their commanding eight-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2025 clash at Barsapara Stadium on Wednesday.

Moeen, who stepped in for Sunil Narine after the latter was ruled out due to illness, made an immediate impact with the ball. He delivered a tight four-over spell, picking up two key wickets—Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Rana—while conceding just 23 runs at an economy of 5.8.

“Firstly, we bowled really well in the first six overs. The middle overs were crucial too—the way the spinners controlled the game. Moeen got his opportunity and bowled really well. We want players to play fearlessly and give them complete freedom. Credit to our bowling unit, especially Moeen,” Rahane said at the post-match presentation.

Though Moeen failed to contribute significantly with the bat—scoring just 5 off 12 balls before being run out—Rahane backed the English all-rounder, calling him a “quality player” and highlighting the importance of staying in the moment.

“Moeen has opened before and he’s a quality player. He couldn’t get going with the bat today, but I’m really happy with what he did with the ball. Every match is a learning experience,” he added.

Chasing 152, KKR got off to a brisk start, posting 40 in the powerplay. Moeen’s departure in the seventh over didn’t deter the chase, as Quinton de Kock took charge. He went on to score a majestic 97* off 61 balls, anchoring the innings with poise and power.

Rahane contributed 18 off 15 before being dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga, but KKR were always in control. Angrish Raghuvanshi (22* off 17) provided solid support to de Kock, who finished the match with a six in the 18th over.

Earlier, KKR restricted RR to 151/9, thanks to a disciplined bowling effort led by Varun Chakravarthy (2/17), Moeen Ali (2/23), Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora (two wickets each), and Spencer Johnson (one wicket).

Brief Score:
RR: 151/9 (Jurel 33, Jaiswal 29; Chakravarthy 2/17, Moeen Ali 2/23)
KKR: 153/2 in 17.3 overs (de Kock 97*, Raghuvanshi 22*; Hasaranga 1/34)