Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were forced to make a key change in their playing XI for their IPL 2025 clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) as veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine was ruled out due to fitness concerns. In his absence, Moeen Ali stepped in as his replacement. While the 37-year-old didn’t contribute much with the bat, he made an impact with the ball, picking up two crucial wickets.
His performance has now left KKR with a selection dilemma for their next game. Speaking after the match, Moeen reflected on his experience with KKR, having joined the franchise for the first time this season.
The English all-rounder revealed that he was only informed about his inclusion on the morning of the match. Despite the last-minute call-up, he was pleased with his contribution and praised the team environment.
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“It was nice. I have been practicing well. I was told this morning that Sunil wasn’t well. Replacing him wasn’t easy, but I think I did a fair job. These are the kind of wickets you enjoy bowling on—trying to open the batters up, spinning the ball as much as possible. The team has been amazing, a great bunch of guys. Even at 37, I’m still trying to get better,” Moeen Ali said in the post-match presentation.
Moeen Ali: “It’s been amazing to be part of KKR. They have champions mentality. They know what they are doing. I am pleased to be here.”#IPL2025 #IPL #KKRvsRR #KKRvRR #RRvsKKR #RRvKKR #TATAIPL #TATAIPL2025 pic.twitter.com/TbcwiQwIYc
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKR_FanClub) March 27, 2025
Moeen also had the challenge of facing Jofra Archer with the new ball, opening the innings alongside Quinton de Kock. He admitted that Archer’s pace troubled him, especially since he hadn’t faced him since the Ashes.
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“I haven’t faced that kind of fast bowling since the Ashes. I was the unlucky one taking him on—he was too quick for me! But I’m still trying to improve, use my experience, and keep my game sharp,” he added.
