Umran Malik Joins KKR For Rehab And Return To Cricket Programme
The speedster will work with Knight Riders' support staff but won't be an official squad member.
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Indian pace sensation Umran Malik has joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Kolkata to continue his rehabilitation and “return to cricket” programme for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. The franchise announced the development through their official Instagram handle on Thursday.
The 25-year-old speedster, known for consistently bowling at speeds exceeding 150 kmph, will not be joining as an official playing member of the squad. Instead, he will work closely with the team and support staff to regain his fitness and form.
“⚡️ @umran_malik_1 has joined the squad in Kolkata to continue his rehab and ‘return to cricket’ programme with KKR for the remainder of the season,” the franchise stated in their Instagram post. “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 💜.”
The images and videos shared by KKR show Umran Malik in KKR training gear, suggesting he has already begun working with the team’s support staff.
The Jammu Express’ Journey To KKR
Umran Malik’s association with KKR began earlier this year when the franchise acquired him at the IPL 2025 auction. KKR had previously shared a post about Malik’s acquisition with the caption: “Fast. Faster. Umran Malik! ⚡ Umran Malik | #AmiKKR | #TATAIPLAuction | #IPL2025.”
However, Malik has been battling fitness issues and hasn’t featured in any competitive cricket recently. This rehabilitation stint with KKR marks an important step in his recovery process.
The Meteoric Rise Of Jammu’s Pace Sensation
Umran Malik’s rise in Indian cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. Born in Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, Malik made his Twenty20 debut for Jammu & Kashmir in the 2020–21 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on January 18, 2021. His IPL journey began as a net bowler for Sunrisers Hyderabad before being drafted into their main squad as a replacement for T. Natarajan, who had tested positive for COVID-19.
Malik’s raw pace caught the attention of cricket pundits and fans alike during the 2022 IPL season, where he consistently clocked speeds over 150 kmph. His fastest delivery in that season was recorded at 157 kmph, making him one of the fastest bowlers in the world.
Following his impressive IPL performances, Malik earned his maiden India call-up for the T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. He made his T20I debut against Ireland later that month and went on to represent India in 8 T20Is, picking up 11 wickets with a best of 3/48.
Recent Social Media Activity Shows Positive Mindset
A look at Malik’s recent Instagram activity shows a player maintaining a positive outlook despite his fitness challenges. On Eid earlier this month, he posted a celebratory message, “EID MUBARAK EVERYONE 🌙” to his followers.
He has also shared glimpses of his personal life, with posts captioned “It’s all about time🧿” and “Freezinnnn” showing him enjoying time away from cricket. In January, he posted a patriotic message on Republic Day with the Indian flag emoji, demonstrating his national pride.
What This Means For KKR And Malik
For KKR, having Malik in their setup even in a non-playing capacity could be beneficial in multiple ways. The current table-toppers can utilize this opportunity to help Malik regain his fitness while also integrating him into their team culture ahead of potential participation in future tournaments.
For Malik, this stint presents a perfect platform to work with KKR’s world-class support staff, including mentor Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Bharat Arun, who have extensive experience in developing fast bowlers.
The Road Ahead
While Malik won’t be seen in action during IPL 2025, this rehabilitation period could be crucial for his long-term career prospects. The BCCI and Indian team management have shown faith in his potential, and a successful recovery could see him back in contention for national selection.
Cricket fans will be eagerly waiting to see the “Jammu Express” return to the field, hopefully at his intimidating best. For now, the focus remains on his complete recovery and gradual return to competitive cricket under the guidance of KKR’s support system.
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