Ahead of the kickstart of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have announced the signing of left-arm fast bowler Chetan Sakariya as a replacement for the injured Umran Malik.
Malik, who was acquired by KKR for INR 75 lakh, has been sidelined for the entire season due to an unspecified injury.
Chetan Sakariya, 27, hails from Bhavnagar, Gujarat, and has previously represented India in one One-Day International (ODI) and two T20 Internationals (T20Is). He made his IPL debut in 2021 with the Rajasthan Royals, impressing with his ability to swing the ball and deliver under pressure.
Over three IPL seasons (2021-2023), Sakariya has played 19 matches, claiming 20 wickets at an average of 29.95 and an economy rate of 8.44. His best bowling figures in the league stand at 3/31.
In the 2022 season, Sakariya moved to the Delhi Capitals but had limited opportunities, featuring in only three matches and taking three wickets. Despite his potential, he went unsold in the mega auction held late last year. However, his consistent performances in domestic cricket and his ability to adapt to different formats have kept him on the radar of IPL franchises.
This signing marks Sakariya's second stint with KKR. The franchise had previously acquired him for INR 50 lakh ahead of the 2024 season, but he did not feature in any matches during their title-winning campaign.
Now, with a renewed opportunity, Sakariya will be eager to contribute to KKR's bowling attack. His experience and left-arm pace option add variety to the team's arsenal, potentially filling the void left by Malik's absence.
KKR's decision to bring in Sakariya underscores their strategic approach to maintaining a balanced and effective bowling lineup. As the team prepares to defend their title in the upcoming season, the inclusion of a bowler with international experience and prior IPL exposure could prove pivotal in their campaign.
Ajinkya Rahane will be leading KKR in the upcoming season. Former West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo is named the new mentor for KKR ahead of the season.
