IPL 2025: Huge Boost for KKR as Umran Malik Rejoins Squad Ahead of Punjab Match

In a big boost for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), pace sensation Umran Malik has rejoined the squad to continue his rehab and work on his return to action with the team. This comes at a great time for KKR, just ahead of their match against Punjab Kings on April 26 at Eden Gardens.

However, Umran hasn’t officially rejoined KKR as part of the playing squad just yet. Instead, he’ll be working closely with the team and support staff as he focuses on getting back to full fitness and returning to his best form.

“Umran Malik has joined the squad in Kolkata to continue his rehab and ‘return to cricket’ programme with KKR for the remainder of the season. He’s not joining as an official playing member of the squad, but will work with the team and support staff to get back to his best! Welcome to the family Umran,” KKR said in a statement.

Back in March, Umran Malik was ruled out of IPL 2025 due to injury, and KKR brought in spinner Chetan Sakariya as his replacement. The franchise had picked up Umran for ₹75 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction after he was released by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Despite bursting onto the scene with some fiery spells, injuries have consistently held him back. Since debuting in the IPL in 2021, he's only played 26 matches and completed a full season just once in 2022. His last international appearance came in 2023 and he’s been on the sidelines ever since.

Umran Malik IPL Career Stats (2021–2024)