Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have secured left-arm pacer Chetan Sakariya as a replacement for speedster Umran Malik, who has been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to injury.
Umran Malik’s Injury Woes
Malik, 25, has been struggling with injuries and health setbacks since his breakthrough in 2021. The fast bowler, known for consistently clocking speeds of 150kph, has not played a competitive match since IPL 2024, where he featured in just one game for Sunrisers Hyderabad. He was initially set to participate in the Duleep Trophy at the start of the 2024-25 domestic season but had to withdraw due to a bout of dengue. Later, he suffered a hip fracture, further delaying his return to the game.
In his international T20 career, Malik has played eight matches, claiming 11 wickets at an economy rate of 10.48.
Sakariya’s Return to Competitive Cricket
Chetan Sakariya, who last played a competitive match for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy in February 2024, is also on a comeback trail following his own injury concerns. The left-arm pacer has previously represented India in two T20 internationals, picking up one wicket at an economy rate of 9.27.
With KKR’s first-choice left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson leading the attack, Sakariya could serve as a backup option. Additionally, Malik’s absence leaves KKR without an Indian fast bowler who can replicate Anrich Nortje’s raw pace, especially since Nortje has also struggled with injuries.
KKR Aim to Defend Their Title
As the reigning IPL champions, having defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 final, KKR will look to maintain their dominance in the upcoming season. The addition of Sakariya provides them with a valuable bowling option, though the absence of a genuine express pacer like Malik could impact their strategy.
KKR fans will now be eager to see how the team adapts to these changes as they gear up for IPL 2025.
