Brevis Heroics Seal Chennai’s Win, Kolkata’s Playoff Hopes Fade
The Indian Premier League 2025 season delivered yet another thrilling match at the iconic Eden Gardens, where Chennai Super Kings defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by two wickets in a last-over finish that left fans on the edge of their seats. While Chennai was already out of playoff contention, their spirited performance disrupted Kolkata’s campaign, leaving the defending champions hanging by a thread in the race to the final four.
This dramatic encounter revolved around a blistering 22-ball half-century from South African batsman Dewald Brevis and a composed late finish led by MS Dhoni, showcasing the unpredictable and riveting nature of the IPL. Kolkata now face a steep challenge to qualify, needing victories in their remaining matches and favorable results from other teams.
Chennai’s Dramatic Turnaround Defies the Odds
The task appeared steep for Chennai as they began chasing a competitive total of 180. By the end of the powerplay, the scoreboard read a worrying 60 for 5. The innings had started on a poor note with both openers Ayush Mhatre and Devon Conway falling for ducks. The early jolts appeared to seal Chennai’s fate, but what followed was a testament to the depth of their squad and the fearless mindset with which they play.
It was Dewald Brevis who turned the tide. Making the most of the stage, Brevis’s counterattack injected life into the chase. The youngster took a couple of overs to settle but then launched a spectacular assault on Kolkata’s bowling. His most memorable moment came in a single over against Vaibhav Arora, where he scored 30 runs, including three sixes and three fours, bringing up his 50 in astonishing style.
Shivam Dube provided much-needed stability at the other end. Their partnership added substance to a chase that had begun with chaos. Though both fell before the finish line, their heroics brought the game within touching distance for the finishers.
Dhoni Delivers a Vintage Finish
Chennai’s batting veteran and captain MS Dhoni was left with the responsibility of closing the match, alongside tail-ender Anshul Kamboj. With eight runs needed off the final over and Andre Russell bowling, the tension soared. Dhoni, with years of experience in such situations, stepped up with a towering six over midwicket. The equation was reduced to two runs off three balls, and a boundary from Kamboj brought home victory with two balls to spare.
For Chennai, this was just their third win in 12 matches, a campaign marked by narrow defeats and rebuilding efforts. But in this game, they showed character, resilience, and a refusal to go down without a fight.
Noor Ahmad Spins a Web to Stall Kolkata
Earlier in the day, it was Chennai’s bowling attack, particularly Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad, who set the tone. Kolkata, after opting to bat first, looked comfortable at various stages but failed to fully capitalize. Noor’s four-wicket haul broke their momentum and ensured that the score didn’t go past 180.
Kolkata’s innings began with promise despite losing opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz early for 11. Sunil Narine and captain Ajinkya Rahane rebuilt cautiously, putting on 58 runs. Narine struck a few boundaries to keep the run rate moving before Noor got the better of him, stumped by Dhoni.
That dismissal started a mini-collapse. Angkrish Raghuvanshi followed soon after, caught behind off Noor, and Rahane—well set on 48—fell to a mistimed reverse sweep against Ravindra Jadeja. The promising innings fell short of a half-century and highlighted Kolkata’s inability to turn starts into big scores.
Middle Order Falters Despite Pandey and Russell Resistance
With wickets falling, Manish Pandey held one end together, playing the anchor role. He was joined by Andre Russell, who looked dangerous as always. Russell’s 38 off 21 balls featured his signature power-hitting, but just when Kolkata seemed poised for a late surge, Noor Ahmad returned to remove him with a well-placed delivery that led to a catch at long-off.
Rinku Singh, another trusted finisher, could not make an impact either. Noor dismissed him for 9, further diminishing Kolkata’s hopes of pushing the total closer to 200. Manish Pandey remained unbeaten but lacked the support to accelerate in the final overs.
Ultimately, Kolkata ended their innings at 179 for 6—what looked like a defendable score on paper but turned out to be just short under pressure.
Kolkata’s Bowling Effort: Bright Start, Diminishing Finish
Kolkata’s bowlers made an excellent start, exploiting the new-ball conditions to leave Chennai reeling. Vaibhav Arora and Varun Chakravarthy were effective in the early overs. Chakravarthy’s dismissal of Jadeja was especially significant, as it broke a budding partnership and looked to tilt the game firmly in Kolkata’s favor.
But the story changed with the arrival of Brevis and the boldness of Dube. Despite making tactical changes and rotating their bowlers, Kolkata failed to stem the flow of runs once Brevis found his rhythm. His dominance over Vaibhav Arora in the 13th over shifted momentum rapidly.
Even when Brevis was dismissed by Chakravarthy, Chennai had enough batting depth to keep pushing. Dube carried on with composure, and his alliance with Dhoni ensured that Chennai stayed in the game till the last over.
Russell was entrusted with the crucial final over, but despite his experience, he could not prevent Dhoni from applying the finishing touches in a style reminiscent of his peak years.
Chennai’s Youth and Experience Blend for the Perfect Chase
Chennai’s decision to back young players such as Urvil Patel, who scored a brisk 31 on his IPL debut, and Dewald Brevis, who had not had a significant opportunity till now, paid off handsomely. The franchise, although already out of playoff contention, demonstrated how a team can use the remaining matches to build momentum and evaluate new talent for future seasons.
Brevis’s innings will surely be remembered as one of the most impactful cameos of the season. His fearless hitting and strategic shot selection made a significant difference in a high-pressure chase. Dube’s maturity and Dhoni’s calm ensured that the platform was converted into a memorable win.
Kolkata Faces an Uphill Battle for Playoff Qualification
The defeat leaves Kolkata Knight Riders in a vulnerable position. With only two league matches remaining, they must win both and hope other match outcomes favor them. Their current form, inconsistent middle-order performances, and an inability to close out matches will be concerns going forward.
The team’s management may need to rethink strategies, especially with regard to finishing games and utilizing their bench strength effectively. Despite Rahane’s steady presence and Russell’s explosive potential, the lack of a consistent finisher in recent games has hurt their prospects.
Additionally, the bowling attack has shown moments of brilliance but struggled in death overs—something that cost them dearly in this match. Addressing these issues swiftly will be crucial if Kolkata wants to maintain any hope of progressing to the knockout stage.
The League Table Heats Up in Final Stretch
As the IPL 2025 approaches its final group-stage fixtures, this result adds another layer of excitement and uncertainty. Chennai’s win serves as a reminder that every game matters, not just for points, but also for pride, player development, and momentum into future seasons.
For Kolkata, the task is now survival. Winning their next two matches is non-negotiable, and even that might not be enough unless other teams falter. The next few days in the IPL calendar promise high-octane cricket, nail-biting scenarios, and a reshuffling of the points table that keeps fans thoroughly engaged.
A Match That Captures the Essence of IPL
This Chennai-Kolkata clash had all the ingredients of a classic IPL encounter—early collapses, unexpected heroes, tactical spin bowling, big sixes, and a last-over finish. It once again highlighted why the tournament continues to capture global attention year after year.
While the result has major consequences for Kolkata Knight Riders, it also showcased the resilience of a Chennai Super Kings team eager to finish the season on a high. For Dewald Brevis, this could be a breakout moment; for MS Dhoni, it was another reminder of his enduring legacy. And for the IPL itself, it was a game that lived up to its billing—unpredictable, thrilling, and thoroughly entertaining.
