Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have suffered a double blow ahead of their must-win clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), with overseas stars Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali officially ruled out for the remainder of IPL 2025.
The IPL 2025 restarts with the RCB vs KKR fixture at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, May 17. The BCCI opted to complete the remaining set of league and playoffs games after the cross-border tensions decreased.
Medical setbacks force exits in KKR camp
In an official statement on May 15th, KKR confirmed that both Powell and Moeen failed to rejoin the squad due to medical reasons. The franchise revealed that Powell is currently “undergoing a procedure,” while Moeen Ali and his family are recovering from a viral infection. ESPN Cricinfo further reported that Moeen has opted out of the rest of the season due to personal reasons.
Powell, who featured in just two matches this season, managed only 5 runs at a strike rate of 100.00. The West Indies batter, despite his power-hitting credentials, could not make an impact in the limited opportunities.
Moemen, meanwhile, contributed more consistently, picking up 6 wickets in 6 appearances at an economy of 8.50. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane featured Ali consistently on spin-friendly tracks as he added more variety alongside Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine.
KKR currently sit sixth in the IPL 2025 standings with 11 points from 12 games. With only two group matches remaining, the Knight Riders must win both and hope other results—particularly involving Punjab Kings—go their way to stay in playoffs contention.
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