Rain Abandons Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders, KKR Secures Top-Two Finish

Gujarat Titans' Playoff Hopes Dashed as Rain Abandons Match Against Kolkata Knight Riders

The first abandoned match of IPL 2024 occurred in Ahmedabad on Monday due to a combination of lightning and heavy rain, confirming two crucial outcomes: Kolkata Knight Riders' top-two finish in the league stage and Gujarat Titans' elimination from playoff contention.

Gujarat Titans, languishing in eighth place, needed a victory to remain in the hunt, but the relentless rain prevented even a toss from taking place. The storm's intensity was such that it affected some floodlights, and torn stadium banners wrapped around them, necessitating manual removal.

Gujarat Titans' task was already daunting, with the season's lowest net run-rate of -1.063. Even two substantial victories in their remaining two games could have left them short. Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, were virtually assured of a top-two finish thanks to their dominant net run-rate of 1.428 after 12 games, which was solidified by their 19th point in the tally.

This marks the first time Gujarat Titans have failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs since joining the competition in 2022. They will play a consolation match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 16.

The abandoned match could have provided Kolkata Knight Riders with an opportunity to integrate wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz into their starting lineup. Gurbaz is expected to replace Phil Salt, who will depart to join his national team camp.

Kolkata Knight Riders' next goal is to finish the league stage at the top, a feat they have never achieved before. A victory over Rajasthan Royals in their final league game on Sunday will guarantee them the top spot. They will also secure the top position if Rajasthan Royals fail to secure two wins in their remaining two matches, including the KKR fixture.

Even if Kolkata Knight Riders do not finish first, they will not be overly concerned. In the two previous seasons they finished second in the IPL points table (2012 and 2014), they emerged as IPL champions.

Tags: #IPL2024, #GujaratTitans, #KolkataKnightRiders, #AbandonedMatch, #PlayoffContention