Let’s face it — in a tournament like the IPL, where plans are as valuable as a butter knife in a gunfight, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have searched for answers using the method of sacrifice. In a squad full of flair and firepower, they produced a batting strategy that has more in common with the standard dull work memo than a plan to win T20 matches. For KKR fans, watching the batting unfold was like watching ‘Groundhog Day’, where they saw the same order, the same approach, the same inevitable result. Unfortunately, this result was not great.
The Flexibility KKR Forgot to Pack
Everything flows as it should in T20 cricket. In that format, one over can change everything, and the best teams can write a new ending as they go. KKR, though, were committed to the same old script, regardless of what was going on in the middle. A big one? Andre Russell — one of the most dangerous hitters in T20’s history — often came in far too late, like a beery guest who showed up for the after-party. Against Punjab, chasing a paltry 111, KKR were 60 for 2 and didn’t even send Russell in early. Why? Spin. Really?
I mean, if you need 40 runs and you’ve got Russell in your team, you don’t start worrying about match-ups. You let the beast go. Not only did they seem to doubt the flexibility of their players, but they failed to realise the fluidity of the T20 format and put all their eggs in one plan.
Same Players, Same Problems
IPL is more than just making sure you have good names on the team sheet, it’s about combinations. KKR’s top-order players didn’t have much diversity in their skill sets, which meant they were stuck in first gear, and when KKR’s wheels began to fall off mid-season, they didn’t take a tactical GPS; they just checked their mirrors and drove straight into oblivion.
Think of the most successful teams — CSK or Gujarat Titans — they improvise. They take their time when it matters, or they go crazy when needed. KKR’s batting, however, seemed fixated on “what we planned we do.” In a space where chaos is currency, they were playing too safe.
Read Also: KKR’s Playoff Dreams: Hanging by a Thread or Already Snapped?
Missed Moments and the Cost of Rigidity
Every season has its defining moments, and KKR had plenty of matches begging for a different approach. Against the Sunrisers, they had a sniff. Against Rajasthan, they looked ready to make their move. But again, it was about rigid decision-making and not taking advantage of significant moments. They didn’t promote in-form batters or use their power-hitting lineup effectively. It almost felt as if they were more afraid of being wrong in their decision-making than winning.
And here is the fun part — it wasn’t only fans shouting at their screens, but experts and even former players pointed it out: KKR’s inability mid-game to change the plan was their ultimate downfall. T20 cricket is about taking risks and bold moves, not taking a safe option and receiving sympathy in return for the effort rather than silverware.
In a league where each ball can change everything, sticking to your plan, even if your ship is sunk, will put you at the bottom. There was talent for KKR, but not much tactical courage. Their biggest question for the end fate for the season will be, did we give ourselves the best chance to win every match we played?
What do you think KKR should do next season — completely rebuild or just rethink their plan? Let me know in the comments!
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