Rinku Singh and Ajinkya Rahane (Source: Screengrab/JioHostar)
The Kolkata Knight Riders are playing against the Rajasthan Royals at the Eden Gardens for IPL 2026 match 28 on April 19, 2026. One moment from the game between KKR vs RR that caught the attention of the fans involved KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane and vice-captain Rinku Singh.
After winning the toss, RR captain Riyan Parag chose to bat first. Rajasthan made two changes to their lineup, bringing in Shimron Hetmyer and Brijesh Sharma, while KKR stuck with the same playing XI.
Varun Chakravarthy's magical spell
Rajasthan Royals got off to a decent start, thanks to young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who played with confidence and aggression. The teenager smashed 46 runs off just 28 balls. Yashasvi Jaiswal, alongside Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, had built a strong 81-run opening partnership.
However, the game changed dramatically when Varun Chakravarthy was introduced into the attack. In a short span, he dismissed Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Riyan Parag, breaking the backbone of the Royals' innings.
Chakravarthy’s spell of 3/14 in four overs turned the momentum completely in KKR's favour.
RR’s batting lineup collapsed after KKR's discipline bowling
After such a strong start, the Rajasthan Royals suddenly found themselves struggling. The innings collapsed from a comfortable 81/0 to 124/5 within just a few overs. KKR’s spin duo of Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine applied constant pressure, not allowing the batters to score freely.
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RR’s middle order failed to build partnerships, and Kartik Tyagi took three wickets in the 19th over. The Royals, who once looked set to cross 200, eventually managed only 155/9 in their 20 overs.
Ajinkya Rahane angry on Rinku Singh
Amid the intense match, a moment in the 13th over caught everyone's attention. Varun Chakravarthy bowled a delivery to Shimron Hetmyer, who mistimed a pull shot towards long-on for a single. Rinku Singh fielded the ball but was slightly slow in returning it.
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This delay visibly frustrated captain Ajinkya Rahane, who reacted angrily on the field. His expression showed clear disappointment. The moment also appeared to leave Rinku Singh disheartened, as cameras caught his sad emotions.
Watch the video here:
KKR vs RR's performance in IPL 2026
For KKR, this match carries massive importance. The Kolkata-based franchise has struggled throughout the season, failing to register a single win in six matches.
With one game abandoned, KKR currently sit at the bottom of the table with no points. This game is a must-win if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
On the other hand, the Rajasthan Royals have enjoyed a strong season so far. With four wins in five matches, they are among the top contenders and currently sit comfortably in third place. Led by Riyan Parag, RR will aim to bounce back despite this batting setback vs KKR.
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