Left-arm pacer Chetan Sakariya has joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a net bowler for IPL 2025, marking a potential turning point in his career. The 27-year-old, who last played for India in 2021, was unsold in the IPL 2025 auction but was spotted by KKR bowling coach Bharat Arun during a T20 tournament in Mumbai. Sakariya is on a comeback trail after recovering from a major wrist injury treated by NCA-recommended Dr. Sudhir Warrier.

Sakariya previously played for KKR in IPL 2024 but did not get any game time and was released. In his IPL career, he has played 19 matches, taking 20 wickets. His breakthrough came In IPL 2021 with Rajasthan Royals, where he claimed 14 wickets in as many matches, earning him a spot on the Indian team.

While his financial gains as a net bowler are limited, training under Bharat Arun and alongside established players like Andre Russell and Anrich Nortje could aid his revival. Sakariya hopes to emulate comebacks like Mohit Sharma’s and regain his form. With three international wickets to his name, Sakariya’s journey reflects resilience and determination to return to competitive cricket.