Rahul Dravid, known for his sportsmanship and love for quality cricket, made a touching gesture after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured an eight-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2025 clash in Guwahati. Despite being on crutches due to a leg injury, Rahul Dravid, RR’s head coach, entered the field with a big smile and personally congratulated Quinton de Kock, who played a match-winning knock.
The South African wicketkeeper-batsman, with an unbeaten 97 off 61 balls, led KKR to victory, ensuring Rajasthan’s second consecutive defeat of the season. Rahul Dravid’s gesture was widely appreciated as he stopped Quinton de Kock before he could leave the field, shook hands, patted his back, and exchanged a few words of appreciation.
Rahul Dravid’s injury had earlier been a concern for RR’s camp, with the legendary cricketer spotted in a wheelchair before the match. However, his presence and dedication ensured that the team’s preparations remained unaffected. Appointed as RR’s head coach after leading India to the T20 World Cup triumph last year, Rahul Dravid’s leadership remains crucial for the team’s progress in IPL 2025.
Quinton de Kock’s innings was nothing short of spectacular. Coming into the season after being bought by KKR for ₹3.60 crore in the mega auction, the left-hander displayed immense class and composure. His knock, laced with six sixes and eight fours, provided the much-needed stability after KKR lost early wickets. Quinton de Kock formed an unbeaten 83-run stand with impact substitute Angkrish Raghuvanshi, ensuring that KKR chased down Rajasthan’s modest total with ease. His final flourish came in the form of a six off Jofra Archer, sealing the win and marking KKR’s bounce back after their opening defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
KKR’s bowlers, particularly Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy, and Moeen Ali, played a pivotal role in restricting RR. Arora dismissed Sanju Samson early, while Chakravarthy and Moeen dismantled Rajasthan’s middle order, leaving them struggling at 82-5. Despite late contributions from Dhruv Jurel and Archer, RR could only manage a below-par total.
As Rajasthan faces mounting pressure with consecutive losses, all eyes will be on stand-in captain Riyan Parag and head coach Rahul Dravid to turn things around. Meanwhile, KKR, riding high on Quinton de Kock’s brilliance, looks poised for a strong campaign ahead.
