Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], February 20: Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) all-rounder, Ramandeep Singh, who was a key player in their title-winning IPL 2024 campaign, has set his sights on further excelling in the 18th edition of the tournament, this time focusing on his bowling. Speaking candidly during a conversation on Knight Live Adda, the 27-year-old opened up about his journey and his goals for the upcoming season.
Ramandeep, fresh from a strong performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he picked up 5 wickets at an economy rate of 8.10 in seven matches for Punjab, is eager to showcase his bowling alongside his aggressive batting skills.
Reflecting on his role, Ramandeep shared, “The conversation from IPL 2024 was that coaching staff have the same expectations from my bowling as they had from my batting. A couple of impactful overs in the middle of the bowling innings will be very important for the team. So, I am working on the same. I want to win games as a bowler.”
His retention by KKR in the mega auction is a testament to the franchise’s trust in his potential. In IPL 2024, he proved his worth as a powerful middle-order batter, scoring 125 runs at a strike rate of 201.61, which contributed significantly to KKR’s success. His performance earned him a call-up to the Indian team, where he made his debut during India’s T20I series against South Africa in late 2024.
“I am extremely grateful to have made my debut for India. I have worked hard to reach this position in my career, and now, I am reaping the fruits of my hard work. It is a dream come true to get retained in a mega auction. Looking forward, my attempt will be to give my 100% to the team once again,” Ramandeep expressed.
The Punjab-born cricketer also emphasized his connection with Eden Gardens and its passionate fans. “We have the most wonderful fans at Eden Gardens. Their support and their chants ensure that I have a very special connection with them. I am looking forward to entertaining the fans and making them proud once again,” he said.
As KKR prepares to start their IPL 2025 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore on March 22, Ramandeep’s growth as a dual-threat player could prove vital to the defending champions’ quest to retain the trophy.