Key Highlights:
Mohammed Siraj Strikes Early as Gurbaz Falls LBW in Opening Over
Mohammed Siraj made an immediate impact for Gujarat Titans in their defence of 198, removing Kolkata Knight Riders opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz with a searing delivery in just the first over of the innings. The dismissal gave GT a critical early breakthrough at Eden Gardens.
The Dismissal – Siraj Gets One to Nip Back
Over 0.5 – Siraj bowled a length ball outside off that jagged back sharply into the right-handed Gurbaz. The batter, trying to flick across the line, missed the ball completely and was trapped plumb in front of middle and leg.
- Umpire raised the finger instantly
- Gurbaz consulted Narine and opted for DRS
- Ball-tracker confirmed impact in line and crashing into leg stump
- Third umpire upheld the on-field decision
KKR 2/1 in 0.5 overs
🎙️ “Oh, that’s plumb, isn’t it? Siraj is convinced and so is the umpire! GT off to a perfect start.”
Mohammed Siraj – Spell So Far
| Overs | Runs | Wickets | Economy | Dots | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 21 | 1 | 7.00 | 11 | 2 | 1 |
Siraj combined pace, swing, and aggressive length to trouble KKR’s top order, hitting the right channels from ball one.
Tactical Execution
- Used seam-up angle with the new ball
- Bowled tight lines just outside off to force false strokes
- Consistently attacked stumps to limit scoring opportunities
Why This Wicket Matters
- Removed the aggressive Gurbaz early, denying KKR a fast start
- Put GT in control of the powerplay
- Allowed Rashid Khan and Sai Kishore to apply pressure through the middle overs
Expert Reaction
🗣️ Deep Dasgupta on commentary:
“That’s textbook fast bowling from Siraj – angle in, straighten off the pitch, and dead in front. Huge moment this early in the chase.”
Disclaimer: Wicket update and match stats are accurate as of April 21, 2025, during the first innings of KKR’s chase vs Gujarat Titans.
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