IPL 2025: KKR players celebrate Holi at Kolkata Hotel as Key Foreign star finally joins Team - Watch

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have commenced their practice sessions at Kolkata's Eden Gardens in preparation for the 2025 IPL season. Under the leadership of newly appointed captain Ajinkya Rahane, the team is gearing up to defend their title.

KKR's coaching staff has seen notable additions this season. Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, who retired from professional cricket in September 2024, has joined as the team's mentor. Additionally, Ottis Gibson has been appointed as an assistant coach, further strengthening the support staff.

The team's practice sessions have been intense, focusing on both skill enhancement and team cohesion. With the season opener scheduled for March 22, 2025, against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens, KKR aims to start their campaign on a strong note.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz joins KKR

Till now, the Knight Riders have three players to arrive, as Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, and Spencer Johnson are set to arrive later. The quartet took part in the Champions Trophy and thus are given an extended leave. Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz also took part in the CT but joined the KKR team on Friday amid the festivities.

Apart from that, Jammu and Kashmir pacer Umran Malik is yet to arrive at KKR's camp. The pace star is still at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, nursing his injury issues and yet to receive an NOC from the NCA doctors.

KKR players enjoy Holi

On Friday (March 14), the Knight Riders had no training sessions as the players celebrated the auspicious Holi at team hotel in Kolkata. Several players were in action and showcased their colour skills.

KKR released a video on social media which showed Rinku Singh dancing and celebrating Holi along with other team members. Captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer and head coach Chandrakant Pandit also enjoyed the festivities. The foreign contingent is also in Kolkata and together they had a blast.

All of the players will be shifting their festive mood to business from Saturday onwards as they prepare for the RCB clash in Kolkata.