NEW DELHI: Indian fast bowler Umran Malik has returned to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) setup for a “return to cricket” programme whilst continuing his rehabilitation from an injury that prevented his participation in the current Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
KKR’s official X account clarified that Umran has not joined as an official player, but rather to collaborate with the team and support staff for his recovery.
KKR stated, “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 acquired Umran at his base price of Rs 75 lakhs during last year’s IPL Mega Auction. However, due to injury, the team brought in Chetan Sakariya as his replacement in March before the season commenced.
Previously associated with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for four years, Umran earned recognition as ‘Jammu Express’ for consistently bowling at speeds exceeding 150 kmph. During his SRH tenure from 2021 to 2024, he claimed 29 wickets in 26 matches, averaging 26.62 with an economy rate of 9.39, including a best performance of 5/25.
His finest IPL performance came in 2022, securing 22 wickets at an average of 20.18, with best figures of 5/25 and an economy rate of 9.03. He emerged as his team’s leading wicket-taker and ranked fourth overall that season.
This success led to his India debut in June 2022 against Ireland. He has since played 10 ODIs and eight T20Is, taking 13 wickets at an average of 30.69 in ODIs (best figures 3/57) and 11 wickets in T20Is at an average of 22.09 (best figures 3/48).
His most recent international appearance was an ODI against West Indies in July 2023, where he registered figures of 0/27 in three overs.
His last competitive cricket match was an IPL fixture for SRH versus Mumbai Indians (MI) in March last year.
Currently, KKR hold the seventh position in the points table with three victories and five defeats, having lost their previous match against Gujarat Titans by 39 runs.
Their upcoming match is against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Saturday.
