IPL 2024 Final: KKR Clinch Third Title with Dominant Win Over SRH

KKR vs SRH IPL Final Live Score: In a one-sided finale, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) claimed their third Indian Premier League (IPL) title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by eight wickets. The match, held on Sunday, showcased KKR’s clinical performance, both with the ball and the bat.

A Dominant Display by KKR

Winning the toss, SRH opted to bat first but faced immediate setbacks. KKR’s bowling attack dismantled SRH, bundling them out for a mere 113 runs—the lowest ever total in an IPL final. Mitchell Starc (2/14), Andre Russell (3/19), and Harshit Rana (2/24) were instrumental in this demolition.

SRH’s Batting Collapse

SRH’s innings started disastrously as they lost key batsmen Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head for just six runs. Mitchell Starc’s brilliant outswinger dismissed Head for a first-ball duck, followed by Abhishek being bowled by Starc’s exquisite delivery in the first over.

Rahul Tripathi’s departure at 21/3 further deepened SRH’s troubles. Starc’s swing proved too challenging for the SRH top-order, as he claimed Tripathi’s wicket as well. Harshit Rana and Andre Russell continued the onslaught, removing Nitish Reddy and Aiden Markram, respectively, reducing SRH to 62/5 by the 11th over.

A Brief Fightback by Cummins

Pat Cummins offered a brief resistance with a 19-ball 24, but SRH couldn’t recover and were bowled out for 113 in 18.3 overs. Despite some late hits, SRH’s innings was marked by a lack of substantial partnerships and poor shot selections.

KKR’s Commanding Chase

KKR chased down the modest target with ease, finishing at 114/2 in just 10.3 overs. Venkatesh Iyer led the charge, remaining unbeaten on 52 off 26 balls. The chase was wrapped up efficiently, with KKR’s batsmen displaying dominance and composure.

Highlights of the Final

• Mitchell Starc: Starc’s resurgence was pivotal, with key early wickets setting the tone for KKR’s dominance. He was named Player-of-the-Match for his exceptional performance.
• Andre Russell: Russell’s all-round abilities shone through, contributing crucial wickets and maintaining pressure on SRH.
• Venkatesh Iyer: Iyer’s aggressive half-century ensured KKR’s straightforward chase, sealing their victory with 57 balls to spare.

SRH’s Disappointing Performance

SRH’s powerful batting line-up faltered under pressure, failing to deliver in the high-stakes final. Their transition from a feared batting side to a team struggling at 113 was stark. Despite a spirited effort from Cummins, the overall performance was lackluster.

The Atmosphere and Aftermath

The 31,061-strong crowd at Chepauk experienced an anti-climactic finish to an otherwise thrilling season. The final, lacking significant contest, saw fans of the Orange Army and KKR blend, with KKR’s victory sealing a festive atmosphere. The crowd’s energy peaked when Queen’s “We Are The Champions” played, celebrating KKR’s triumph.

Key Performances in the Season

• Orange Cap: Virat Kohli (RCB) – 741 runs
• Purple Cap: Harshal Patel (Punjab Kings) – 24 wickets
• Most Valuable Player of the Season: Sunil Narine (KKR)
• Emerging Player of the Season: Nitish Kumar Reddy (SRH)

Conclusion

The IPL 2024 final highlighted KKR’s strategic brilliance and SRH’s unexpected collapse. KKR’s comprehensive win, marked by exceptional bowling and confident batting, secured their place as one of the dominant teams in IPL history. With their third title, KKR celebrated a season of hard work and tactical excellence, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next edition of the IPL.