Chetan Sakariya Returns to KKR for TATA IPL 2025, Excited for New Season

“It Feels Like I Never Left” – Chetan Sakariya on His Return to KKR for TATA IPL 2025

Kolkata, March 17, 2025: Left-arm fast bowler Chetan Sakariya is thrilled to be back with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the upcoming TATA IPL 2025 season. The defending champions signed Sakariya as a replacement for Umran Malik, strengthening their pace attack ahead of a crucial campaign.

Sakariya’s Excitement to Rejoin KKR

After officially joining the squad on Monday, Sakariya shared his excitement:

“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.”

The 27-year-old pacer, who has represented India in an ODI and two T20Is, has taken 20 wickets in 19 IPL matches. Despite an injury setback in February 2024, he is determined to return to peak form for the upcoming season.

Preparations and Fitness Goals

Sakariya expressed gratitude for the KKR management for showing faith in him:

“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.”

As he builds back to full fitness, the left-arm pacer is focusing on regaining rhythm and match sharpness.

Learning from KKR’s Bowling Legends

One of the most exciting aspects of rejoining KKR is the opportunity to work under experienced mentors like Bharat Arun and Dwayne Bravo. Sakariya highlighted the invaluable support from KKR’s coaching setup:

“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.”

KKR’s IPL 2025 Campaign Kickoff

Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their TATA IPL 2025 campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 22 at Eden Gardens. With Ajinkya Rahane leading the side, the defending champions aim to retain their title and continue their dominant form.

About Kolkata Knight Riders

The Knight Riders brand is a global powerhouse in T20 cricket, boasting multiple championships across various leagues. The franchise includes:

• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – TATA IPL

• Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) – Caribbean Premier League (CPL)

• Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) – UAE’s International League T20

• Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) – Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA

KKR’s IPL Legacy:

• Three-time IPL Champions (2012, 2014, 2024)

• 2021 IPL Runners-up with a historic comeback season

• Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) CPL Champions 4 times in 10 years

• TKR Women’s Team – WCPL Champions 2022

With an emphasis on talent scouting and player development, the Knight Riders Academy continues to train young cricketers worldwide, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the franchise.

As Chetan Sakariya rejoins the Knight Riders squad, fans eagerly await his performances in TATA IPL 2025, where he looks set to play a crucial role in KKR’s title defense.