Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)’s must-win encounter against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 60 of the Indian Premier League 2026 got off to a disastrous start as Mohammed Siraj produced a peach of a delivery to dismiss skipper Ajinkya Rahane at Eden Gardens on Saturday.
With KKR fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive, the early wicket handed Gujarat Titans complete control in the opening stages of the contest. Rahane, who has often provided stability at the top for Kolkata this season, had no answer to Siraj’s brilliant inswinger that crashed into the stumps and left the Eden Gardens crowd stunned. The dismissal also marked a personal milestone for Siraj, as the pacer completed 200 wickets in T20 cricket.
Mohammed Siraj bowls a jaffa to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane
After winning the toss, Gujarat Titans captain chose to field first on a surface expected to assist bowlers early on. The decision immediately paid dividends as Siraj struck with pace and precision in his very first spell. Bowling at around 138 kph, Siraj delivered a fuller ball that shaped sharply back into Rahane. The KKR captain attempted to whip the delivery through the leg side but failed to move his feet. The late inward movement beat the bat completely before rattling the stumps.
Rahane’s dismissal put Kolkata under immediate pressure in a game they simply cannot afford to lose. KKR entered the contest knowing that victories in all their remaining league matches are necessary to keep their slim playoff chances alive.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans came into the clash sitting comfortably in the top half of the table. A win in Kolkata would officially secure their qualification for the IPL 2026 playoffs, making the fixture equally significant for both sides.
Here’s the video:
That’s a massive breakthrough for #GT. 🤯#MohammedSiraj gets rid of the #KKR captain and shifts the momentum early.#TATAIPL Race To Playoffs 2026 ➡️ #KKRvGT | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/CRwulMlbwZ pic.twitter.com/CUFGEv7efH
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 16, 2026
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Siraj continues impressive IPL 2026 campaign
Siraj has been one of Gujarat Titans’ most reliable performers this season, especially with the new ball. His ability to generate movement at high pace has troubled several top-order batters throughout the tournament. The wicket of Rahane once again highlighted Siraj’s growing reputation as a powerplay specialist. More importantly, the breakthrough gave Gujarat early momentum in a high-pressure encounter.
As soon as the ball crashed into the stumps, Siraj celebrated passionately while his teammates surrounded him. Fans on social media also reacted quickly, praising the delivery and calling it one of the best balls of the ongoing IPL season.
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