Kolkata: Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill pointed to his team’s deficient defensive performance as the primary cause for their 29-run loss to the Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday, asserting that the squad "didn’t deserve to win" after failing to secure multiple catches against the two-time champions.

The Titans experienced an error-prone defensive display, dropping four catches overall. Among the missed opportunities was a reprieve given to the dangerous Finn Allen, who capitalised on the mistake by compiling a blistering 93 runs. Allen's performance propelled Kolkata to a formidable total of 247-2, establishing a steep target that ultimately proved insurmountable for the visiting team despite a determined batting response.

The loss also concluded a five-match winning streak for the Gujarat franchise.

"Looking at the wicket, 200-210 was par score, but we dropped too many catches. Pitch was good, the odd one was stopping, but I felt we batted well to get to the score we did. No concerns, but our fielding could've been a lot better," Gill said following the conclusion of the game. "We set a certain standard, and dropping 3 sitters - we didn't deserve to win this one. Looking at it that way, best to have a game like this now than in the Qualifiers."

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Kolkata's Offensive Surge

Allen thoroughly exploited the defensive lapses, recording 10 sixes and four boundaries during his high-impact innings.

The offensive momentum was sustained by Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who contributed a 44-ball 82 featuring seven sixes and four boundaries. Cameron Green further accelerated the scoring rate with an aggressive 52 runs scored off 28 deliveries.

Kolkata captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed satisfaction with the competitive mindset demonstrated by his batting lineup, noting their consistent execution throughout the innings.

"Really happy with two points. The way we started with the bat [despite] losing the toss. Amazing to see Finn Allen's knock. Preparation always has been fantastic. The talk was always to take it one game at a time. Today the batters backed their strengths," Rahane said. "Overall, it was a fantastic effort from the bowling unit. It's all about trusting their ability. Whenever you do well in domestic cricket, you carry that confidence."

Rahane also commended the depth of his roster and the support provided by his veteran players.

"(Saurabh) Dubey has been bowling well in the Vidarbha league. Credit goes to these guys. It's all about belief and confidence. (Sunil) Narine makes my job really easy. Varun (Chakaravarthy) showed the courage to play this game. He has a sore foot."

Milestones and Roster Adjustments

Spin bowler Varun Chakaravarthy returned to the Kolkata starting lineup after being sidelined during the previous contest due to a hairline toe fracture.

Appearing in his 200th Indian Premier League match, Sunil Narine secured Player of the Match honours after claiming two wickets for 29 runs.

"It comes with hard work. Guys have been training really well, putting in the hard yards, and it's showing. Hope it continues no matter what the tournament has in store for us," Narine said. "It's all about planning what is in front of you. Every game brings a different challenge. All about trying to win the scenarios and try not to overthink. Being a senior guy and God given me the talent and health to play 200, hopefully I play many more."

With inputs from PTI