Kolkata: KKR are still in the hunt for a playoff berth this season, but they face a double challenge this Sunday: overcoming both RR and their own poor form at home.

Eden Gardens, once considered KKR’s fortress, has been far from comforting this year. With only one win in four home games and another match abandoned, Kolkata’s stronghold has started to feel like unfamiliar territory. Sunday’s clash marks their penultimate home fixture—and a must-win if they are to stay in the playoff race.

For KKR, the equation is simple yet steep: win all their remaining four matches to finish with 17 points and stay in contention. But the immediate obstacle is RR, a side already knocked out of the tournament but still dangerous enough to play spoilers. With pride on the line, the Royals will be eager to bow out with dignity.

Consistency remains a thorn in KKR’s side. They are yet to string together consecutive wins this season. While Rahmanullah Gurbaz showed signs of returning to form in the last outing, Andre Russell and Rinku Singh have contributed in bursts.

However, Venkatesh Iyer’s prolonged lean patch is a growing concern. Will the team management take the bold step of dropping him?

Anukul Roy has impressed with both bat and ball, which might edge out Ramandeep Singh from the playing XI. With three overseas players already locked in, the final foreign slot may come down to a call between Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali. Given Eden’s traditionally slower surface, Moeen’s all-round abilities might give him the edge.

A loss on Sunday won’t mathematically eliminate KKR, but it would leave them hanging by a thread—a scenario the team would want to avoid at all costs.

On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals may be out of the playoff picture, but they remain a force.

After a promising start, their campaign fizzled out—highlighted by a high against Gujarat Titans and a dismal showing against Mumbai Indians. With skipper Sanju Samson nursing an injury and Sandeep Sharma ruled out, the Royals are depleted, but still dangerous.

Young guns like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi have the talent to turn games around.

With nothing left to lose, the Royals could come out swinging. Players like Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, and Akash Madhwal will be keen to make a mark and finish on a high.

Adding to the intrigue is the weather. The pitch appeared dry and spin-friendly in the lead-up, but with Norwesters predicted on Sunday night, both teams may have to factor in the possibility of rain interruptions.

For KKR, Sunday is not just about staying in the race—it’s about reclaiming Eden. For RR, it’s about pride.

Either way, expect a fierce contest.