IPL 2025: 3 Game changers in KKR squad

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up for IPL 2025 with the challenge of defending their title. In the last season, they defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the final to clinch their third IPL trophy. With increased expectations, KKR will need to elevate their game to retain the title. 

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However, the absence of title-winning mentor Gautam Gambhir and captain Shreyas Iyer in the upcoming season makes the task even tougher. To overcome this, some players must step up with game-changing performances and take on greater responsibility in key moments.

Here are the 3 game changers in the KKR squad for IPL 2025

1. Sunil Narine

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West Indies veteran spinner Sunil Narine could once again be a game-changer for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming IPL season. Over the years, Narine has been a key asset for KKR, delivering match-winning performances with both ball and bat. KKR retained him for INR 12 crore. 

In the 2024 IPL, he was outstanding, picking up 17 wickets in 15 matches at an impressive economy rate of 6.69. His contributions with the bat were equally impactful, as he amassed 488 runs in 14 matches at a blistering strike rate of 180.74, including three fifties and a century while opening the innings.

However, this season brings a fresh challenge, as KKR will be without Gautam Gambhir in the mentor role. His influence played a significant role in maximising Narine’s effectiveness last season. It will be interesting to see how the KKR management utilises Narine’s all-round brilliance this time around and whether he can continue to be the x-factor for the franchise.

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2. Andre Russell

Another West Indies veteran and a true KKR legend, Andre Russell, will once again play a crucial role in the upcoming IPL season. Known for his explosive power-hitting and ability to deliver in crunch moments with the ball, Russell remains one of KKR’s most valuable players.

In the 2024 season, he showcased his all-round brilliance, smashing 222 runs at a blistering strike rate of 185.0, including a vital half-century. With the ball, he was equally impactful, claiming 19 wickets, though his economy rate of 10.06 reflected the high-scoring nature of the tournament.

As KKR aims for another strong campaign, fans will be hoping for more match-winning performances from Russell, whether it’s with his destructive batting or game-changing spells with the ball. His ability to turn games around single-handedly makes him a key player to watch once again this season. KKR retained him for INR 12 crore.  

3.Ramandeep Singh

When KKR announced their retention list ahead of the mega-auction, Ramandeep Singh’s name was there, as the franchise secured him for INR 4 crore. The decision did not surprise many KKR fans, as his talent and potential are now well-recognised.

Ramandeep is a powerful striker of the ball and can also chip in with the ball if needed. However, his most underrated skill is his athleticism on the field, as he has already shown with some brilliant catches and sharp fielding efforts.

Last season, he batted lower down the order but made an impact with quick-fire cameos, finishing with an impressive strike rate of 201.61. With more experience under his belt, the 2025 season could be a breakthrough one for him if he steps up with match-winning performances.

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