‘Narine Is Our MVP’: Vaibhav Arora Backs All-Rounder to Power KKR’s IPL 2025 Campaign

Kolkata Knight Riders’ rising pacer Vaibhav Arora has heaped praise on Sunil Narine, calling him the “most valuable player” for the franchise this season. With four league games remaining, Arora believes Narine’s form across all departments could be the key to KKR’s playoff qualification and title run.

Narine’s All-Round Brilliance Anchors KKR

Arora singled out Narine’s impact, not just with the ball and bat, but also in the field and even as a stand-in captain. “He is the pure MVP for us. In the last match against Delhi Capitals, he bowled, batted, fielded, effected a run-out, and even led the side. If his form continues, we will definitely win the remaining matches,” Arora told ANI.

This season, Narine has claimed 10 wickets in nine games with an economy of 7.70 and scored 178 runs at a staggering strike rate of 174.51, underlining his match-winning value.

Arora on Fast Bowling, Rahane’s Leadership, and Learnings from Legends

Arora also addressed the criticism around KKR’s pace attack this season. While the fast bowlers have fewer wickets compared to 2024, Arora attributed this to strategic team changes. “Harshit Rana and I have been regulars—we’ve taken 11 and 12 wickets respectively. But without a third pacer like Starc playing consistently, we’re using more spinners. That’s why the overall numbers are down,” he explained.

When asked about the difference between captains Ajinkya Rahane and Shreyas Iyer, Arora offered high praise for both. “There’s no difference between the two. Both are very supportive and give complete freedom to the bowlers. That trust makes a big difference on the field.”

He also shared key lessons from senior pros. “Mitchell Starc taught me the value of discipline in bowling, especially yorkers. Russell’s work ethic is inspiring—he practices yorkers regularly even now. That kind of dedication shows in matches,” Arora added.

Backing Venkatesh Iyer to Return to Form

Vaibhav Arora remains optimistic about teammate Venkatesh Iyer, who has had a subdued campaign so far with just 142 runs in ten games. “We are confident in him. He can return to form in the very next match. He’s done it before in 2021 and last year, and he can do it again,” said Arora.

The 26-year-old pacer has been one of KKR’s standout bowlers this season. With 12 wickets in nine games, this is already his best IPL season statistically. Overall, he has taken 31 wickets in 29 IPL matches at an average of 28.35, and continues to be a force in the powerplay with his swing and control.

As KKR gear up for a critical phase of IPL 2025, Arora’s words reflect a confident and united camp. With Narine firing and bowlers like Arora and Rana stepping up, Kolkata Knight Riders look ready for a strong finish.

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