Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings had to settle for a share of points in their IPL 2026 meeting at Eden Gardens after persistent rain washed out the game. Showers began at 7:47 PM local time, and although there were short breaks in the downpour that briefly revived hopes of a reduced contest, the weather did not clear soon enough for even a five-over match. After a lengthy wait, the match officials abandoned the fixture at 11 PM.
Match abandonment and points shared
With the encounter called off following the prolonged delay, the result ensured both teams received points rather than a win or a loss. For KKR, it provided their first points of the season after a run of back-to-back defeats. Punjab Kings, meanwhile, were denied the opportunity to carry forward their flawless start that had featured two straight victories.
Toss call and KKR’s early struggle
Under overcast conditions, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane made an unexpected decision to bat first, even though the pitch and skies offered no certainty about a full game. In another notable twist, KKR fielded a side for the first time since 2020 without Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, with both ruled out due to illness and injury respectively.
The batting plan went awry almost immediately. KKR slipped to 16 for 2 within the first two overs. Xavier Bartlett was the key factor, taking advantage of the movement in the air to strike twice in quick succession—removing Finn Allen and Cameron Green in the span of just three balls.
Brief scores and the point where play stopped
- Play was halted at 25 for 2 after 3.4 overs.
- The match was not resumed after the stoppage.
- Brief scores: Kolkata Knight Riders 25/2 in 3.4 overs (Xavier Bartlett 2/9).
