In a surprising turn of events that could spark a major career resurgence, Chetan Sakariya is once again donning the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) colors as a net bowler in preparation for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. After being overlooked in the IPL 2025 mega auction, many would have seen it as a potential career-ending blow. But Sakariya, with KKR’s backing, is ready to breathe new life into his journey in cricket.
### The Rise and Fall of a Promising Career
Chetan Sakariya’s cricketing path has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, filled with both high points and low moments. Born on February 28, 1998, in the small town of Vartej, Gujarat, Sakariya caught the cricketing world’s attention with standout performances for Saurashtra in domestic games. His true breakthrough came in the 2020-21 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he took 12 wickets and maintained a stingy economy rate of 4.9. Capitalizing on this success, he made his IPL debut with Rajasthan Royals in 2021, claiming 14 wickets across 14 matches, which eventually earned him a call-up to the Indian national team.
### The Road to Recovery and Redemption
Sakariya’s redemption arc started with an arduous recovery from a significant wrist injury. With guidance from Dr. Sudhir Warrier, as recommended by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), he embarked on a journey of relentless rehabilitation to regain his strength and form. A crucial moment in his comeback was when KKR’s bowling coach, Bharat Arun, noticed Sakariya’s remarkable form during a T20 tournament in Mumbai. Recognizing his potential, Arun brought him on as a net bowler for KKR, offering him a second chance. Training alongside elite players like Andre Russell and Anrich Nortje, and under the expertise of head coach Chandrakant Pandit and assistant coach Ottis Gibson, Sakariya aims to absorb invaluable lessons and rejuvenate his career.
### Challenges and Personal Struggles
Sakariya’s path has not just been defined by professional hurdles but also personal ones. The year 2021 was particularly harsh, with the heart-wrenching loss of his father to COVID-19 and the untimely passing of his brother. These profound personal losses, coupled with career challenges, have tested his spirit. Nevertheless, his unwavering determination to revive his cricket career serves as a powerful source of inspiration.
### A New Beginning with KKR
Embarking on this fresh chapter with KKR as a net bowler, Sakariya is not only focused on refining his skills but also intent on proving his mettle once more. While he was part of the KKR squad in IPL 2024, he didn’t get a chance to shine on the field. This time, although he might not immediately make it into the playing XI, the experience and training he gains with the squad hold the promise of greater opportunities ahead.
With the IPL 2025 season kicking off on March 22, Sakariya faces a pivotal time in his career. Behind the scenes, he’s striving to reclaim his spot on the Indian national team and to become a mainstay in the IPL. Energized by KKR’s faith in him and his own relentless effort, the left-arm pacer is on a path poised for success.
