Try to focus on my strength: Narine reflects on all-round brilliance in KKR's dominant win over CSK

ANI April 12, 2025 138 views

Sunil Narine delivered a breathtaking all-round performance that demolished Chennai Super Kings in a one-sided IPL encounter. His remarkable spell of 3/13 restricted CSK to a mere 103/9, followed by a blazing 44-run knock that helped KKR chase down the target in just 10.1 overs. The victory significantly boosted Kolkata's standings, pushing them to third place in the tournament. Narine's versatility and match-winning abilities once again underscored why he remains one of the most valuable players in the IPL.

"Try to focus on my strength" - Sunil Narine, Player of the Match
Chennai, April 12: Sunil Narine produced a sensational all-round performance to guide Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a commanding eight-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash at Chennai on Friday. The win marked KKR's third triumph in six matches this season, propelling them to third place on the points table.

Key Points

1

Narine takes 3/13 and smashes 44 runs in quick-fire innings

2

KKR decimates CSK with comprehensive win

3

Narine-de Kock partnership sets platform for victory

4

Third win propels KKR up points table

Opting to bowl first, Narine was exceptional with the ball, returning figures of 3/13 from his four overs. His spell derailed CSK's innings, as the veteran spinner kept the batters in check and picked up crucial wickets during the middle overs. CSK could only manage 103/9 in their 20 overs.

Narine's impact wasn't limited to the ball. Opening the innings with Quinton de Kock, he launched a fiery counterattack, smashing 44 runs off 19 balls, including two fours and five sixes. The pair added 46 runs for the opening stand, setting the tone for a swift chase. KKR chased down the target in 10.1 overs, a result that also boosted their net run rate significantly.

Speaking at the post-match presentation after being named Player of the Match, Narine said, "Almost [a complete game], next time hope I can take a catch as well. Try to focus on my strength. Batters play well but if you focus too much on batters, you are already on the back foot. You get accustomed and try to adapt as soon as possible," as quoted from ESPNcricinfo.

Narine also emphasised his role at the top of the order.

"It's very simple -- trying to get the team off to a flying start. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't," he said.

With both bat and ball, Narine's brilliance proved too much for CSK on the night.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul P.
Narine is just unstoppable this season! That opening blitz was 🔥. CSK had no answers to his all-round game. KKR looking dangerous with him in this form!
P
Priya K.
While Narine was brilliant, I think CSK's batting lineup needs serious work. 103 is just unacceptable at home. They're relying too much on their spinners to bail them out every time.
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Arjun M.
That economy rate of 3.25 with 3 wickets is insane! Narine the bowler is back to his best. Remember when people said he was done after his action changed? Legend proving them wrong!
S
Sanjana T.
Love how humble Narine is in the interview. "Almost complete game" - man just took 3 wickets and scored 44(19) 😂 What more does he want? A century and 5 wickets? 😍
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Vikram S.
As a CSK fan, this was painful to watch. But gotta respect Narine's performance. He's been doing this for years now - mystery spinner who can also smash it. True IPL legend!
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Neha R.
His approach is so simple yet effective - focus on strengths, don't overthink. More players should adopt this mindset. Also, that six over extra cover was pure class! 👏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
IPL 2025 Sunil Narine Kolkata Knight Riders Chennai Super Kings Cricket Highlights
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