KEY WIN FOR KNIGHT RIDERS

EOIN Morgan’s Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Rajasthan Royals by 86 runs to take a firm grip on the fourth and final spot in the IPL playoffs. Shubman Gill hit a 44 ball 56 as Kolkata stormed to 171 for four in Sharjah. Shivam Mavi then took four wickets for 21 off just 19 balls as Rajasthan collapsed to 85 all out in 16.1 overs. Reigning champion Mumbai Indians could equal Kolkata’s 14 points if it beats Sunrisers Hyderabad. But it would need a winning margin of 171 runs to clinch a playoff place with Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore.