New Delhi: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have bounced back in IPL 2025 after losing their opening match, securing a dominant 8-wicket win against Rajasthan Royals. Now, the team is gearing up for their next big clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. In a major boost for KKR, their star all-rounder Sunil Narine has recovered and rejoined practice with the squad.
Sunil Narine Fit for Mumbai Indians Match
Narine was absent from KKR’s playing XI in their last match against Rajasthan Royals, with captain Ajinkya Rahane clarifying that he was not injured but unwell. However, Narine has now resumed training, strengthening Kolkata’s lineup ahead of their crucial encounter against Mumbai Indians.
Narine Missed a Match After 1628 Days
The absence of Sunil Narine from KKR’s playing XI was a rare occurrence. The last time Narine was not part of the Kolkata lineup was 1628 days ago. England all-rounder Moeen Ali replaced him in the previous match, but Narine’s return is expected to add depth to both KKR’s batting and bowling.
Narine has been a key player for KKR, contributing significantly in both departments. The West Indian cricketer has played 178 IPL matches, scoring 1578 runs at an explosive strike rate of 165.93, including 7 half-centuries and a century. On the bowling front, he has 181 wickets to his name and has troubled some of the best batters in T20 cricket.
Head-to-Head: Mumbai Indians Hold Upper Hand
The history of IPL encounters between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders heavily favors Mumbai. Out of the 34 matches played between the two teams, Mumbai has emerged victorious 23 times, while KKR has won only 11 matches. This gives MI a clear edge going into their upcoming face-off.
With Sunil Narine back in the squad, KKR will be hoping to turn the tables against Mumbai and improve their head-to-head record. Will KKR manage to upset Mumbai at Wankhede, or will MI continue their dominance? The high-voltage clash promises to be a thrilling encounter for IPL fans.