The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have built a reputation for stability and consistency in the Indian Premier League (IPL). During their journey to the IPL 2024 title, they relied on a select group of players, with even seasoned players like Nitish Rana sitting out due to the team’s solid combination.
While KKR couldn’t manage to retain their entire squad, despite efforts, players such as Phil Salt, Mitchell Starc, and Shreyas Iyer have moved to other teams. Nonetheless, Kolkata still boasts a stable playing XI, which is unlikely to see significant changes in the upcoming season.
Here are three KKR players who could remain on the bench during IPL 2025:
#1 Rovman Powell
Presumably signed as a backup for Andre Russell, Rovman Powell may not play a key role in KKR’s plans for IPL 2025. The powerful West Indian all-rounder offers little with the ball, and while his hitting ability is valuable, the team’s overseas combination is likely to limit his chances.
Although Russell has faced numerous injuries over the years, he appears to have found a good balance between strength and agility recently. He managed to get through IPL 2024 without any issues, even being tasked with regular bowling duties.
#2 Anukul Roy
Anukul Roy has been a consistent presence on the KKR bench during the past two IPL seasons. Although the left-arm spinner has occasionally featured as an impact player and regularly served as a substitute fielder, he has struggled to secure a starting spot.
This is understandable, given that Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine make up one of the strongest spin-bowling duos in the IPL. While there is a slight possibility Anukul could be called upon if Kolkata needs three spinners, they may opt for Mayank Markande instead.
#3 Moeen Ali
Moeen Ali, who was signed towards the end of the IPL 2025 auction, didn’t attract much interest. While KKR clearly values his experience, it’s difficult to see how the English all-rounder will secure a spot in the playing XI for the three-time IPL champions.
KKR’s middle order is packed with Indian batters, and with Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Quinton de Kock, Spencer Johnson, and Anrich Nortje competing for the two remaining overseas slots alongside Narine and Russell, Moeen’s chances seem slim. Additionally, he is past his peak and has not been in the best of form recently.
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