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Former England's star all-rounder Moeen Ali got the opportunity to make his debut for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 6 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to Sunil Narine missing out on the game against Rajasthan Royals (RR) as he was unwell. KKR ended up crushing RR by eight wickets at the Barsapara stadium in Guwahati to open their winning account in the IPL 2025.
Moeen Ali all praise for Jofra Archer
Moeen did not disappoint as he played a crucial role with the ball and helped the defending champions to restrict on a low score of 151/9. He had a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders as he was replacing the Knights' ace performer.
However, despite stealing the show with the ball, the all-rounder could not do well with bat as his outing was cut short to just 5 runs off 12 balls due to an unfortunate run-out. Ali even took on Narine's opening position due to which he had to face his fellow countryman Jofra Archer. After the match, he revealed how troubling it was for him to face a bowler with such lethal pace. Jofra Archer might be having a nightmarish outing in the ongoing IPL 2025, but he has certainly received an ultimate praise for sure. Archer conceded 33 runs in just 2.3 overs. He was also taken to cleaners in RR's previous match SRH where he leaked 76 runs in four overs to record the worst spell in T20 history. Nevertheless, Moeen said he has not faced that sort of fast bowling probably since the Ashes.
"It was nice. I have been practising well. I was told this morning Sunil was not well. It was hard to replace Sunil but I did a fair job. Those are the wickets you enjoy the most, try and open the batters up, spin the ball as much as you can. Really good, really good bunch of guys, it's been amazing so far. Trying to get better at 37-years-old. It's a very very balanced side, all these players are amazing, Narine, Russell and Quinny always guaranteed to play so it's tough to get in. Take your chance when it comes and make the most of it. (on Archer) I have not faced that sort of fast bowling probably since the Ashes. I was the unlucky one facing him, he was too quick for me. Just to stay on top of your game and still try to improve and develop. Use my experience and keep the stumps in play and to the left-handers in particular bowl it tight," Moeen said in the post-match presentation.
KKR will next face Mumbai Indians in their next IPL 2025 clash on March 31 at the iconic Wankhede stadium.
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