Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are in serious trouble in IPL 2025, having struggled to maintain any consistent form this season. With just three wins and five losses from their eight matches, and a washout against Punjab Kings (PBKS), KKR’s hopes of reaching the playoffs are less now. As the tournament progresses, the team must win all their remaining fixtures to have a chance, but former India cricketer Anil Kumble believes that task is going to be a steep uphill battle.
Reflecting on KKR’s challenging season, Kumble pointed out that the team is yet to find its best playing XI. In the recent washout against PBKS, KKR made two changes, bringing in Rovman Powell and Chetan Sakariya, both making their first appearance in IPL 2025. However, the game was called off due to rain, leaving Powell without an opportunity to bat, and Sakariya struggled with the ball, conceding 39 runs in three overs.
“No, because they still haven’t figured out their best playing eleven. It’s not like they’ve won two games and now just need five more in a row or anything like that. I’m not sure – they made two changes today. Chetan Sakariya came in as a replacement and played his first game. Rovman Powell also made his debut for KKR,” Kumble told ESPNcricinfo.
KKR’s Underperformance: Key reasons behind their struggles
While the core of the team remains largely the same as the previous season, KKR have faced significant setbacks this year. The absence of Shreyas Iyer has been a major blow for the franchise, as the team has failed to find a suitable replacement for him in the middle order.
Another key reason for KKR’s struggles is the disruption in their once-successful opening pair. Phil Salt, who was a key player alongside Sunil Narine in the previous season, was bought by RCB for IPL 2025. Meanwhile, Narine’s form has been far from consistent this year, and his lack of impact has put extra pressure on the rest of the batting lineup.
Venkatesh Iyer, who was the most expensive player for KKR this season, has failed to live up to expectations, adding further concerns to the team’s already fragile batting order. The combined failure of several key players has resulted in heavy defeats, leaving KKR with much to prove as they approach the business end of the season.