IPL 2025: With Sunil Narine's legacy cemented, he offers reminder of enduring impact

New Delhi: Sunil Narine’s legacy in the IPL is defined by his remarkable consistency, adaptability and unwavering match-winning ability for Kolkata Knight Riders. Since joining the franchise in 2012, Narine has played a pivotal role in KKR’s triumphs, evolving from a mystery spinner to a dynamic allrounder. His longevity and continued impact, even as he approaches his 37th birthday, make him one of the most influential overseas players in IPL history.
Narine’s journey with KKR began as a spinner with an aura of mystery, bamboozling batters with his variations and stingy economy. Over the years, he has not only maintained his effectiveness with the ball but also reinvented himself as a dangerous pinch-hitter at the top of the order, often providing KKR with explosive starts.
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On Tuesday, his allround value was on full display in the clash against Delhi Capitals. Opening the batting, Narine smashed 27 runs off 16 balls, including two sixes and two fours, setting the tone for KKR’s imposing total of 204. His opening partnership with Rahmanullah Gurbaz yielded 48 runs in under three overs, giving KKR the momentum they required.
But it was with the ball that Narine truly turned the game. With Delhi Capitals threatening to chase down the target, Narine’s spell in the middle overs was decisive. He dismissed the big-hitting Axar Patel, the dangerous Tristan Stubbs and the well-set Faf du Plessis, finishing with figures of 3 for 29. His wickets came at a crucial juncture, derailing Delhi’s chase and sealing a 14-run victory for KKR.
Despite his heroics with the bat and ball, Narine enjoyed most the run out he effected of KL Rahul. His dead-eye pick-up-and-throw from short fine leg was perfect, catching Rahul just short of his ground at the striker’s end. Sending back Rahul, who has been a key figure for Delhi this season, was another key moment of the match that went in favour of KKR. “I’m obviously not the greatest fielder. But it’s always good to give a good run out whenever it’s possible. My mantra is just pick up and swing, and throw the ball as hard as possible,” Narine said.
Narine’s value to KKR extends beyond his runs and wickets. In the same match, when regular captain Ajinkya Rahane left the field due to injury, Narine stepped in as stand-in captain and made some astute tactical decisions. One such being entrusting Varun Chakravarthy to bowl the critical 18th over, which yielded two wickets and stifled Delhi’s chase.
“I back myself to deliver for the team. There are games where you don’t start well but end well. Self-pride keeps me going. I always want to be the go-to option for my captain in pressure situations,” Narine said.
Rahane termed Narine a “banker” for the side who can deliver under any pressure situation. “He has been a champion bowler for the franchise. It’s so good to have him and Varun in the team. I can always go to him whenever we are in trouble. He has been working really hard, coming early for the practice sessions, bowling for hours and hours in the nets,” Rahane said.
The 2024 season was particularly remarkable for Narine. He amassed 488 runs at a staggering strike-rate of 180.74 and claimed 17 wickets with an economy rate of 6.69. His all-round prowess earned him the ‘Most Valuable Player’ award for the third time (2012, 2018 and 2024), making him the first player in IPL history to achieve the feat.
This season Narine hasn’t touched the lofty standards of 2024, but has still delivered the goods for KKR with both bat and the ball in two of the franchise’s four wins so far. It is his 14th consecutive IPL season, and Narine’s enduring presence and consistent performances are cementing his legacy as one of IPL’s best ever.