IPL 2025: KKR Break Record with Highest Opening Stand

In a remarkable display on May 28, 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders’ openers Sunil Narine and Venkatesh Iyer compiled a record-breaking 143-run partnership in just 9 overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Eden Gardens.

Standout performances:

• Sunil Narine (78 off 35 balls): The off-spinner turned pinch-hitter dazzled with 11 fours and 5 sixes, targeting every short ball.
• Venkatesh Iyer (61 off 28 balls): Complementing Narine’s power with classical drives and deft paddles, he maintained a strike rate above 200.

Impact on the game:

• KKR posted a mammoth 214/3 in their 20 overs, the second-highest total of the season.
• RCB’s chase never got going, folding to 132 all-out in 18.4 overs.

“There’s nothing quite like batting at Eden Gardens,” said Narine. “The crowd lifts you, and today we delivered.”

KKR’s win propels them to the top of the IPL table with six wins from eight matches, firmly in control of their playoff destiny.