There was more bad news for Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026. Umran Malik had a forgettable outing in the DY Patil T20 Cup on February 25.
The express pacer, retained by KKR for the new season, conceded 59 runs in just two overs for Tata Sports Club. He went wicketless and struggled badly with control.
A massive 36 runs came in a single over against Mumbai Customs. That over turned the match and left Malik under serious pressure.
Rugved More took charge from the first ball. He smashed one four and three sixes in Malik’s opening over, attacking the short balls and anything in his arc.
Malik’s second over was even tougher to watch. He bowled multiple no-balls and conceded free-hits, which were hit for big runs.
The lack of rhythm and control stood out. For a bowler known for raw pace, accuracy seemed completely missing.
Mumbai Customs were chasing 193 and made it look easy. They reached the target in just 16 overs, dominating the bowling attack.
More finished unbeaten on 101 off just 46 balls. His fearless knock powered the chase and exposed Tata Sports Club’s bowling, especially Malik’s spell.
This match was part of the DY Patil T20 Cup, where Malik was trying to regain form and fitness before IPL 2026. Instead, the outing has raised fresh doubts.
KKR are already dealing with pace-bowling concerns ahead of the season. Malik was expected to add firepower with his speed.
But spells like this will worry the team management. Control has always been his biggest challenge, and this performance only adds to those concerns.
With IPL 2026 around the corner, KKR will hope this was just one bad day. Malik still has time to bounce back, but the pressure is clearly building.