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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are struggling with their batting lineup in IPL 2025, suffering two collapses in three matches. The defending champions’ top order has misfired, with Sunil Narine and Quinton de Kock failing to provide explosive starts, while middle-order stars Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, and Rinku Singh have been inconsistent.
After being bundled out for just 116 against Mumbai Indians, KKR’s retained all-rounder Ramandeep Singh has expressed his desire to open the innings to revive the team’s fortunes.
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“Mujhe Open Kara De” – Ramandeep’s Bold Statement
In the post-match press conference, Ramandeep said with a smile:
“Main toh chahta hu mujhe open kara de. Meri toh wahi koshish rehti hai.”
(I want to open the batting. I always try to bat up the order.)
Despite coming in at No. 9 against MI, he showed intent with a quickfire 22 off 12 balls (including two sixes). However, he emphasized that he is ready to bat anywhere the team needs him.
“Team ka jaha combination set hai, jaha team mein mujhe opportunity milti hai, mujhe waha accha karne ki koshish karni hai. Match-winner banne ki koshish karni hai.”
(We have a set combination, but wherever I get the chance, I will try to perform and be a match-winner.)
KKR’s Batting Struggles in IPL 2025
- Opening Pair Fails: Narine & de Kock averaging just 18.5 runs per partnership.
- Middle-Order Collapses: Russell (avg. 12.6), Rinku (avg. 19.3) not firing.
- Lack of Stability: No batter has scored a 50+ score in three matches.
Ramandeep’s Case for Promotion
- Aggressive Intent: Strike rate of 165+ in IPL 2024.
- Versatility: Can anchor or attack based on match situation.
- Experience: Played crucial cameos in KKR’s 2024 title win.
Mega Auction Woes – “Disheartening,” Says Ramandeep
KKR lost key players like Phil Salt, Shreyas Iyer, and Mitchell Starc in the mega auction. Ramandeep admitted:
“Mega auctions are disheartening. You set a combination, and then every three years you have to change the team. But that is not an excuse; teams will try and find their winning combinations as quickly as possible.”
What’s Next for KKR?
With just two points from three games, KKR are last in the standings. Their next match is against Sunrisers Hyderabad (April 3, Eden Gardens), where a batting reshuffle might be on the cards.
Should KKR Let Ramandeep Open?
Given his confidence and aggressive approach, promoting Ramandeep could be the spark KKR needs. If given the chance, he might just replicate Rahul Tripathi or Venkatesh Iyer’s success as an opener in past seasons.
