NEW DELHI: Kolkata Knight Riders have suffered a significant setback forward of IPL 2025, as their tempo sensation Umran Malik has been ruled out of the event on account of damage.
KKR have roped in left-arm pacer Chetan Sakariya as Umran’s alternative.
Known for his uncooked tempo, Umran, who represented Sunrisers Hyderabad from 2021 to 2024, was purchased by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 75 lakh on the IPL 2025 Auction.
Sakariya, who went unsold within the IPL 2025 Auction, has been signed by KKR for Rs 75 lakh.
The 26-12 months-previous has beforehand performed for Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals within the IPL, that includes in 19 matches and claiming 20 wickets.
Sakariya has additionally represented India in a single ODI and two T20Is, the place he has two worldwide wickets to his identify.
KKR have made a number of adjustments forward of the 2025 season, each of their squad and assist workers.
Last season’s title-successful captain, Shreyas Iyer, was launched earlier than the mega public sale and later signed by Punjab Kings, the place he was named skipper.
In his absence, KKR have handed the captaincy to Ajinkya Rahane.
Rahane, who led Mumbai to victory within the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy earlier this season, was additionally the event’s main run-scorer with 469 runs in 9 matches, together with 5 fifties. He was named Player of the Tournament for his stellar efficiency.
KKR will kick off their IPL 2025 marketing campaign towards Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22.