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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Finn Allen put on a spectacular show in IPL 2026, blasting an incredible 93 runs off just 35 balls against the Gujarat Titans (GT) during Match 60 at Eden Gardens on Saturday, May 17. 

His electrifying performance was key in keeping KKR’s playoff dreams alive, leading to a solid 29-run win over one of the tournament's toughest bowling lineups. After struggling in April with only 81 runs across five innings, Allen found himself out of the playing XI. 

In the post-match press conference, Allen opened up about how that rough patch had taken a toll on him mentally. He shared that being benched actually gave him the chance to reset his mindset and rekindle his passion for batting. He mentioned that the brief time away from the team turned out to be a valuable learning experience. 

“I was probably a shell of a human for a bit there. And it was all self-inflicted. I think, you know, when you go out of the side, you have time to relax and take a breath and, I guess, look at things from a different perspective. I love playing cricket. I love batting. And I probably wasn't enjoying it as much as I should have at the time, because I was putting so much pressure on myself,” he exclaimed.

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Since his return, the Kiwi opener has looked like a new player altogether. In May, he has notched up scores of 29, 100*, 18, and 93, showcasing the fearless style of cricket he’s known for. His recent performances have also brought back memories of his stunning unbeaten century in the T20 World Cup semifinal against South Africa earlier this year at the same venue. 

Against GT, Allen faced the challenge head-on, even with tricky batting conditions early on and the presence of top-notch new-ball bowlers. He explained that his strategy was to seize scoring opportunities while making sure he stayed at the crease. 

“Look, I think it depends on the wicket, right? Today it was definitely tricky at the start. We knew that was going to be the case. Two of probably the best opening bowlers in the comp as well. So I think, to be honest, I had a plan of just hit what I got.  And if I didn't get the ball, I wanted just try and get off strike or just not get out really,” he concluded.

With Allen regaining his confidence at just the right moment, KKR will be hoping their explosive opener can keep up this impressive form as the defending champions aim for a playoff spot in the crucial stages of IPL 2026.