Kolkata Knight Riders have a fresh concern ahead of IPL 2026 after pacer Umran Malik endured a difficult return to competitive cricket. The speedster struggled badly in the DY Patil T20 Cup.
Playing his first match after recovering from injury, Umran conceded 59 runs in just two overs. His spell raised serious questions about his rhythm and match fitness.
Umran looked off colour from the beginning and lacked control. He bowled three no balls and two wides, which added to his troubles during the brief outing.
KKR had signed Umran Malik for Rs 75 lakh at the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, he missed the entire season due to injury, despite being seen as a key pace option.
The franchise retained him for IPL 2026 with hopes of strengthening their fast bowling unit. His recent performance, though, has caused concern within the camp.
KKR are already facing bowling issues ahead of the new season. Matheesha Pathirana is recovering from a calf injury suffered during the T20 World Cup 2026.
Meanwhile, Harshit Rana continues to battle fitness concerns, adding to the uncertainty around KKR’s pace attack.
Other KKR players also featured in the same DY Patil T20 Cup match. Ramandeep Singh conceded 33 runs in three overs and scored eight runs with the bat.
Vaibhav Arora gave away 34 runs in his four overs and managed to pick up one wicket during the match.
Batting concerns have also emerged for KKR. Rinku Singh has struggled for form, scoring just 115 runs in eight innings so far in 2026.
KKR will now closely track Umran Malik’s form and fitness before IPL 2026 begins. With injuries already affecting their bowling unit, the franchise will hope he regains his rhythm in the coming matches.
