Three Flop KKR Stars Could Be Dropped After Humiliating Defeat

The 31st match of IPL 2025 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) turned into a shocking low point for KKR.

Played on April 15, the match saw Punjab managing just 111 runs while batting first - a target that seemed well within reach for any competent T20 side. But in an unexpected twist, KKR collapsed for just 95 runs, handing Punjab a memorable 16-run win.

This total became the lowest ever defended score in IPL history, surpassing the previous record held by Chennai Super Kings, who had defended 116 runs in 2009. Yuzvendra Chahal was the game - changer with the ball, breaking the back of KKR's batting unit.

After this embarrassing defeat, questions are being raised over KKR’s team selection, and the performance of certain players has come under serious scrutiny. Here are three players who could be dropped from the playing XI for their next match against Gujarat Titans on April 21:

1. Rinku Singh: Rinku Singh was one of KKR's most trusted finishers in past seasons, but this year has been underwhelming. He has scored just 116 runs in seven matches. Apart from two decent knocks, he has failed to deliver when the team needed him most.

2. Venkatesh Iyer: KKR made a bold move by bringing back Venkatesh Iyer in the mega auction for Rs 23.75 crore, but he hasn't lived up to the expectations. In five innings so far, he has failed to reach double digits in three games. His repeated poor shot selection has been a major concern.

With Lavnith Sisodia available - a promising left-hander with an aggressive approach - KKR may consider giving Iyer a break.

3. Ramandeep Singh: Despite being retained as an all-rounder, Ramandeep Singh has had little to no impact. He hasn’t bowled a single over and has barely faced 24 balls this season. Against Punjab, he fell on the very first ball.

Replacing him with Anukul Roy, who offers spin options and is a sharp fielder, could provide better balance to the team. 

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