Kallis powers Knight Riders to victory in IPL

Reuters: South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis notched his second successive half-century to power Kolkata Knight Riders to a nine-run victory over Deccan Chargers in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Monday.

The 35-year-old also took four catches and was adjudged the player of the match as Kolkata posted their first win of the campaign.

Playing on a difficult track at Eden Gardens, which had a lot of turn for the spinners, Kallis compiled a 45-ball 53 with seven fours and a six.

The South African, who also made 54 against Chennai Super Kings in Kolkata’s opening match, put on 51 for the first wicket with Manvinder Bisla after captain Gautam Gambhir won the toss and opted to bat first. Gambhir (29), Manoj Tiwary (30 not out) and Yusuf Pathan (22) chipped in useful runs as the Knight Riders made 163 for four in 20 overs. Captain Kumar Sangakkara’s Chargers, beaten for the second match on the trot, lost wickets at regular intervals as they replied with 154 for eight.

Left-arm spinner Iqbal Abdulla, who took the new ball, picked up three for 24 and was well supported by Rajat Bhatia and Jaidev Unadkat who claimed two wickets apiece.