Umran replacement Sakariya delighted to be back with Knight Riders

The Saurashtra pacer officially joined the KKR squad on Monday and expressed his excitement to be back with the squad

KOLKATA: Left-arm fast bowler Chetan Sakariya, who was named the replacement for the injured pacer Umran Malik, says he is delighted to be back with the Kolkata Knight Riders for the IPL starting on March 22.

The Saurashtra pacer officially joined the KKR squad on Monday and expressed his excitement to be back with the squad.

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“I am really happy to be back. It feels like I never left the squad. I’ve come back to the team with the same atmosphere. KKR is known to be full of energy and all the players are working with the same mindset in training,” he said.

The 27-year-old has represented India in an ODI and two T20Is, while also scalping 20 wickets in 19 TATA IPL matches. However, he is working his face back to full fitness, recovering from an injury setback suffered in February 2024.

Sakariya gave some insight into his preparations as he aims to return to competitive action.

“ I am very grateful to KKR management because they believe in me. I am also in a good state of mind and have been preparing well. So, I am confident going into the season,” he said.

The young fast bowler also spoke about the prospect of working with some greats like Bharat Arun and mentor Dwayne Bravo behind the scenes. “We have bowling experts in our staff. If you need help with the tactical elements and planning, you can go to DJ Bravo. If there are any issues with your rhythm, Bharat sir is the expert. So, as a fast bowler, you can benefit from both,” Sakariya said.
Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their TATA IPL 2025 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens, with Ajinkya Rahane at the helm this time around.