Why Is Sunil Narine Not Playing In RR Vs KKR IPL 2025 Match?

Why no Sunil Narine for KKR [Source: AP Photo]

The stage is set for the 6th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 As the two teams who lost their opening match, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will collide against each other. Both the sides lost their last match and will be eager to get the two points under their belt.

The toss took place and KKR opted to bowl first on a surface which is relatively unknown for both the sides. KKR and RR made wholesome changes but the exclusion of Sunil Narine, the star all-rounder raised quite a few eyebrows.

Why Sunil Narine is not playing Vs RR?

Sunil Narine is a vital cog in the KKR batting and bowling setup and his absence deepens KKR's woes ahead of this clash. However, he has not been dropped because of his runs, but he's been unwell at the moment and KKR are taking precautionary measures.

During the toss time, captain Ajinkya Rahane stated that Narine is feeling unwell and English all-rounder, Moeen Ali will replace him in the playing XI.

Narine was instrumental in KKR's run to the IPL title last season and the team's balance gets disrupted if he doesn't play. He gives an aggressive start at the top and also gets wickets whenever needed.

Now, with no Narine, Ajinkya Rahane can himself open the innings alongside South Africa's Quinton de Kock.

KKR playing XI Vs RR

Quinton de Kock (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Ramandeep Singh, Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

"Follow RR Vs KKR Live Updates for every thrilling moment, from big wickets to game-changing sixes — all in real-time!"

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