In a recent IPL 2026 match, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced a six-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Raipur. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan criticized KKR's tactics, particularly their failure to apply pressure on star batter Virat Kohli, who scored an unbeaten century after previously recording two consecutive ducks. Pathan suggested that KKR should have started with Sunil Narine to unsettle Kohli early in his innings. He also pointed out that KKR's total of 192 runs was inadequate and lamented a dropped catch of Kohli that could have changed the game’s outcome. With only nine points from 11 matches, KKR's chances of qualifying for the playoffs are slim. In contrast, RCB's victory propelled them to the top of the table with 16 points from 12 games, solidifying their position for a playoff spot.