A huge comment by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) legend Sunil Narine ahead of IPL 2026 auction. As we all know that another club legend, Andre Russell retired from the league as a player and now will continue with the team as a support staff. Then who will be the x-factor of KKR?
Sunil Narine pick x-factor for KKR ahead of IPL 2026
Star spinner Sunil Narine said Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will miss Andre Russell’s power-hitting in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season but feels Umran Malik can prove to be the X-factor for the team with his 150 kmph bowling.
Fast bowler Umran is set to make his debut for KKR after missing last season due to a hip injury and Narayan feels the Jammu and Kashmir pacer has the potential to become the franchise’s next trump card. “He is a quality bowler,” Narine said.
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“I think in the IPL, with smaller grounds and good pitches, you need an X-factor to bowl fast. I think Umran will do very well.” Umran returned to competitive cricket this domestic season after being out of action for over 18 months and immediately found his rhythm, taking five wickets for Jammu and Kashmir in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
In the match against Uttar Pradesh, he took three wickets for 37 runs and constantly troubled other batsmen, including his KKR teammate Rinku Singh, with his pace and sharp bounce. Released by Sunrisers Hyderabad, Umran was signed by KKR ahead of IPL 2025 for his base price of ₹75 lakh, but he missed last season due to injury.
“Hopefully he stays fit,” said Narine, a key member of KKR’s three IPL titles. “I’m looking forward to seeing him bowl at 145-150 kph.” Russell recently announced his retirement from the IPL, and Narine said the team will miss him.