Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer and Finn Allen (Agency Image)

Kolkata Knight Riders, who have lost both their opening matches of IPL 2026, are under pressure in an important match against Punjab Kings. In contrast, PBKS arrive with momentum after two wins, which will make for an interesting encounter at the Eden Gardens. Here are five players who could decide the outcome: 1. Ajinkya Rahane All eyes will be on the KKR captain, who has faced heavy criticism after consecutive defeats. Rahane showed his intentions by playing a explosive inning of 67 runs in 40 balls in the opening game against Mumbai Indians, but he could not continue that form in the next match and could only score 8 runs in 10 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad. With pressure mounting, this game gives them another chance to silence their critics and lead from the front. 2. finn allen Allen has provided explosive starts despite not converting them into big scores yet. He scored 37 runs in 17 balls in the opening match and then played a stormy innings of 28 runs in just 7 balls in the next game. If he succeeds in the powerplay, Allen has the ability to dismantle any bowling attack, making him a significant threat at the top. 3. Yuzvendra Chahal The fight between Chahal and Rahane could be decisive. Rahane often struggles against spin in the middle overs and Chahal has been dominant in this match, dismissing him four times and conceding just 46 runs from 45 balls. The leg spinner, who is also the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, has been in good form at the start of the season and can control the pace once again. 4. Arshdeep Singh Arshdeep is yet to find his rhythm and has returned figures of 0/42 and 0/41 in his first two innings. However, his duel with Finn Allen could be crucial. If he can generate early swing with the new ball, he might be able to curb Allen’s aggression and give PBKS early success. 5. Shreyas Iyer Returning to face his former franchise, Iyer adds an emotional subplot to the contest. After leading KKR to the title in 2024, he has now been in strong form as the PBKS captain, scoring 50 off 29 in the last game. With confidence and added motivation, Iyer will once again be at the center of PBKS’ plans. With KKR struggling for balance and PBKS looking well organized in all departments, individual performances from these key players could eventually turn the contest towards a high-scoring encounter.