The 12th match of IPL 2026 between Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings ended in disappointment for fans as rain forced the game to be called off at Eden Gardens.
KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and chose to bat first. However, only 3.4 overs were possible before rain arrived, and the match could not continue after that.
Rahane’s surprising call at the toss
Even with rain expected in Kolkata, Rahane’s decision to bat first raised a few eyebrows. After the toss, he also confirmed that both Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy were not playing due to fitness concerns. KKR brought in Rovman Powell and Navdeep Saini as replacements.
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Early trouble for KKR before rain hits
KKR didn’t get off to a good start. Under cloudy skies, Punjab’s bowlers made full use of the conditions. Finn Allen was dismissed for 6, and Cameron Green managed just 4. The team quickly slipped to 16/2.
At that stage, Rahane (8*) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (7*) were trying to steady things. But just when KKR reached 25/2 in 3.4 overs, rain started pouring. Unfortunately, it didn’t stop, and the match had to be abandoned.
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Rain helps KKR avoid more trouble
The result was a bit frustrating for Punjab, who looked in control and were in a strong position to push for a win. Instead, they had to settle for one point.
For KKR, though, things could have gone worse. They had already lost two quick wickets and were under pressure. With their recent form not being great, many would feel that the rain actually helped them avoid a difficult situation.
In the end, both teams shared a point. It was KKR’s first point of the season, while Punjab now have three points from three matches, with two wins and one no-result.