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Umran, who was roped in by KKR for Rs 75 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction, spoke about his joy on joining the holders and three-time winners.
Umran Malik. (Image: AFP)
India fast bowler Umran Malik has expressed his excitement about joining the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 25-year-old is widely known for his raw pace, crossing the 150 kmph barrier frequently. He previously represented the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, competing under their banner from 2021 to 2024.
Given his bright prospect, Kolkata picked up Umran for Rs 75 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction. He recently spoke about his joy and revealed being thrilled to join the three-time winners.
“I am really happy to join KKR this season. I am so, so excited to don the KKR jersey. I just can’t wait,” Umran said.
Only a year after his debut, Malik was already in contention for the Purple Cap in the 2022 edition of the IPL. He scalped 22 wickets in 14 matches, falling just five scalps short of Yuzvendra Chahal’s 27 for Rajasthan Royals. The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler has had to overcome several fitness issues in recent years. In the same interview, the 25-year-old speedster thanked the KKR for the opportunity.
“They [KKR] are the defending champions, and I am sure they will win another title this season. I am grateful and thankful to them for giving me this chance,” he said.
Suggesting that fans will witness a new version of him in the next IPL campaign, Umran said, “I am confident about getting plenty of opportunities this time with KKR. I am 200 per cent fit and raring to go. You will see a different Umran Malik this time.”
Umran is now also considering his move to KKR as a crucial opportunity for a return to the Indian team. “I want to perform well in the IPL and make a comeback to the Indian side. The IPL has been a massive platform for most cricketers, including me,” concluded the young pacer.
Umran’s last appearance in an Indian shirt came in the 2023 West Indies tour. Competing at the Kensington Oval in Barbados, Umran Malik failed to find a single scalp while giving away 27 runs in his three-over spell. India ended up losing that fixture by six wickets. Malik will now be looking to make amendments, starting with the upcoming IPL season next year.
