IPL 2025: KKR sign Chetan Sakariya to replace Umran Malik
What's the story
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have roped in left-arm seamer Chetan Sakariya as a replacement for the injured Umran Malik in IPL 2025. The 25-year-old has been out of competitive action since IPL 2024, where he played just one match for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Despite his injury woes, Malik was replaced by Sakariya at KKR after missing the Duleep Trophy due to dengue and later suffering a hip fracture.
Comeback
Sakariya's return and potential impact on KKR
Sakariya, who is also recovering from an injury himself, last played competitively in February 2024 in a Ranji Trophy match for Saurashtra. He has played two T20Is in the past, taking one wicket at an economy rate of 9.27. The left-arm pacer could step in for Spencer Johnson as KKR's first-choice left-arm fast bowler after Malik's injury-enforced absence.
Team dynamics
KKR's title defense and squad composition
KKR, the reigning champions who beat Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024 final, now have a challenge on their hands with Malik's injury. The side doesn't have a like-for-like Indian option for Anrich Nortje, another injury-prone player. This could possibly impact their strategy as they look to defend their title in IPL 2025.
Net bowler
Chetan Sakariya joined KKR as net bowler initially
The left-arm pacer was a part of the Knight Riders last season. On March 13, he was selected to operate as a net bowler. This marked his return to the franchise that bought him in the IPL 2024 auction for ₹50 lakh but didn't play him in any matches last season. He was to be paid ₹2 lakh for the job.
Stats
A look at his career
Sakariya made his international debut in July 2021 in an ODI against Sri Lanka in Colombo. He also played two T20Is on the same tour. The left-arm seamer has taken three wickets in as many international matches so far. In 19 IPL games, Sakariya has scalped 20 wickets at an average of 29.95. He made his debut in 2021 for Rajasthan Royals. Sakariya played the next two seasons for DC.