Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have suffered a significant blow ahead of IPL 2025, with their speedster Umran Malik ruled out due to injury. As a replacement, KKR has brought in left-arm pacer Chetan Sakariya, strengthening their bowling attack.
KKR Signs Chetan Sakariya for IPL 2025
Umran Malik, known for his express pace, was signed by KKR for ₹75 lakh in the IPL 2025 Auction after his stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) from 2021 to 2024. However, due to his unexpected injury, KKR has now signed Chetan Sakariya for ₹75 lakh.
Sakariya, who went unsold in the auction, has prior IPL experience with Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC). The 26-year-old pacer has played 19 IPL matches, taking 20 wickets. Additionally, he has represented India in one ODI and two T20Is, securing two international wickets.
KKR’s Squad Overhaul for IPL 2025
KKR has made several changes to their squad and support staff ahead of the season. Shreyas Iyer, who led the team to the IPL 2024 title, was released before the mega auction and later signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS), where he was named captain.
In his place, KKR has handed the captaincy to Ajinkya Rahane, who recently led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. Rahane was the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 469 runs in nine matches, including five half-centuries, earning him the Player of the Tournament award.
KKR’s First Match in IPL 2025
KKR will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on March 22. With fresh leadership and a revamped squad, KKR aims to defend their title in the upcoming season.
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