The Rajasthan Royals cemented their position at the pinnacle of the IPL 2024 points table with a dramatic last-ball victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens. Chasing a daunting 223 set by KKR, the Royals produced a thrilling chase spearheaded by a magnificent knock from Jos Buttler (107*).
Narine Blazes Century as KKR Post Big Total
KKR opted to bat first, and their decision was validated by a blistering knock from Sunil Narine. The Trinidadian all-rounder smashed his maiden IPL century, propelling his team to a formidable total. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals after Narine’s dismissal, cameos from Rinku Singh (20 off 9) ensured KKR reached a commanding 223/6.
Rajasthan Royals Start Brightly, Lose Grip in the Middle Overs
In reply, the Royals began aggressively with Yashasvi Jaiswal (19) and Sanju Samson (15) finding early boundaries. However, the dismissal of both openers triggered a mini-collapse. Despite a valiant effort from Riyan Parag (30 off 18), wickets continued to fall, and the required run rate escalated with each over.
With Rajasthan needing 96 runs off just 36 balls, the odds seemed stacked against them. However, the ever-reliable Jos Buttler stepped up for his team. He smashed boundaries at will, taking apart Shivam Mavi and Andre Russell’s overs. Rovman Powell (33 off 15) provided crucial support with a quickfire cameo before his dismissal.
Narine’s Mystery Fails to Stop Buttler
Needing 46 runs off the last three overs, the pressure mounted on both sides. Buttler continued his assault, even taking apart the usually economical Sunil Narine, who had conceded no boundaries in the season at Eden Gardens. Buttler smashed four sixes off Narine in the 17th over, single-handedly reviving Rajasthan’s hopes.
With 11 runs required off the final over, Mustafizur Rahman conceded two boundaries to bring the equation down to a manageable 5 from the last ball. Buttler, displaying nerves of steel, dispatched the final delivery over the ropes to secure a remarkable two-point victory for the Royals.
Rajasthan Royals Reign Supreme at Points Table
This dramatic win not only extended Rajasthan’s unbeaten run in the IPL 2024 but also solidified their position at the top of the points table. With 12 points from six matches, they hold a significant lead over the second-placed Kolkata Knight Riders (8 points).
This victory showcases the Royals’ resilience and their ability to chase down even the most formidable of totals. Buttler’s match-winning knock further cements his reputation as one of the best finishers in the IPL.
IPL 2024 Points Table: Updated After KKR vs RR Match 31
| Rank | Team | Matches | Wins | Losses | Points | NRR |
| 1 | Rajasthan Royals | 7 | 6 | 1 | 12 | +0.677 |
| 2 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 6 | 4 | 2 | 8 | +1.399 |
| 3 | Chennai Super Kings | 6 | 4 | 2 | 8 | +0.726 |
| 4 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 6 | 4 | 2 | 8 | +0.502 |
| 5 | Lucknow Super Giants | 6 | 3 | 3 | 6 | +0.038 |
| 6 | Gujarat Titans | 6 | 3 | 3 | 6 | -0.637 |
| 7 | Punjab Kings | 6 | 2 | 4 | 4 | -0.218 |
| 8 | Mumbai Indians | 6 | 2 | 4 | 4 | -0.234 |
| 9 | Delhi Capitals | 6 | 2 | 4 | 4 | -0.975 |
| 10 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 7 | 1 | 6 | 2 | -1.185 |
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