“KKR Secures Top 2 Spot in IPL 2024; GT Knocked Out After Rain-Affected Match”

In Short

• KKR cemented their berth in the top 2 of the table
• The Titans failed to go through to the playoffs
• KKR’s last league game is against RR

In a rain-marred encounter between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, KKR solidified their position in the top 2 of the IPL 2024 standings.

The match, crucial for both teams’ playoff aspirations, was ultimately called off due to persistent rain, leaving GT out of contention for the playoffs.

Despite the inclement weather, a fervent crowd of 45,000 spectators remained hopeful for the game to commence.

However, as the clock approached the 10:56 PM cut-off time for a 5-over match, the officials made the decision to abandon the match at around 10:40 PM, much to the disappointment of fans.

For KKR, the result secured their spot in the top 2 of the IPL standings with 19 points and an impressive net run rate of +1.428, courtesy of their nine victories in thirteen matches.

The Knight Riders will now advance to Qualifier 1, scheduled for May 21 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Their journey to the playoffs was affirmed earlier with an 18-run triumph over Mumbai Indians (MI).

Having finished in the top 2 positions in previous IPL seasons, notably claiming the title in 2012 and 2014, KKR aims to replicate their success this year.

With the opportunity to clinch the top spot in the league table by defeating Rajasthan Royals in their final league match on May 19 at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, KKR appears poised for a strong playoff campaign.

In contrast, it was a disappointing campaign for GT, who were eliminated from playoff contention following the rain-affected match against KKR.

The Titans, grappling with challenges including Hardik Pandya’s departure and Mohammed Shami’s injury, struggled to find momentum throughout the season.

Despite a mathematical chance of playoff qualification before their encounter with KKR, the unfavorable weather dashed their hopes.

Heading into their final league game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 16 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, GT will play for pride.

Having clinched the IPL title in their debut season in 2022 and finishing as runners-up in 2023, this season proved to be a stark contrast as they failed to find their rhythm, with captain Shubman Gill facing scrutiny amid the team’s underwhelming performance.