Sunil Narine Says Fit-Again Umran Malik Brings Pace X-Factor to KKR For IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders’ veteran spinner Sunil Narine has identified tearaway pacer Umran Malik as the potential “X-factor” for IPL 2026, expressing excitement over the Jammu Express’ return to full fitness after an 18-month injury layoff. Speaking on the sidelines of the ILT20, Narine said Umran’s ability to consistently bowl 145-150 kph on flat IPL tracks could prove decisive. “You need that X-factor when it comes to pace in IPL because of the small grounds and good pitches. Hopefully he stays fit—I’m looking forward to seeing some thunderbolts,” the Trinidadian told PTI.

Umran, picked by KKR for his base price of Rs 75 lakh ahead of IPL 2025 but ruled out with a hip injury, has stormed back in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with five wickets, regularly hurrying batters, including his own teammate Rinku Singh. Narine, who watched him train late last season, believes the 26-year-old is ready to explode. “He looked good when he joined us at the back end last year. It says a lot,” he added.

While Narine admitted KKR will miss Andre Russell’s explosive finishing after the West Indian retired from playing to join the coaching staff, he backed the franchise’s revamped unit under new head coach Abhishek Nayar, mentor Dwayne Bravo, and assistants Shane Watson and Tim Southee to find the right balance. “DreRuss is leaving big shoes to fill, but hopefully we get the combination right and deliver again,” he said.

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Narine also celebrated becoming only the third bowler in T20 history to reach 600 wickets during the ILT20, calling it a “huge milestone” for someone from a small nation like Trinidad. “Never dreamed of it. Happy to be part of the 600-club, and hopefully many more to come,” he said, crediting the Knight Riders family for his longevity.

With KKR rebuilding after missing the playoffs last season, a fully fit Umran Malik bowling at express pace alongside Narine’s mystery spin could give the three-time champions a lethal cutting edge in IPL 2026.

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