The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 witnessed a spellbinding season of high-octane cricket that culminated in an emphatic victory for Mumbai. Shreyas Iyermanagement of
SMAT 2024: An exciting season ends with a triumph for Mumbai
In the final at the famous Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (December 15), Mumbai beat Madhya Pradesh by five wickets win the trophy. The tournament saw standout performances between the teams, with players stepping up to make their mark at crucial moments. From dark shots to game-changing bowling spells, SMAT 2024 served as a platform for players to showcase their skills. Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. for franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)this tournament provided valuable insights into the form and potential of their key players for the upcoming season.
Shreyas Iyer’s special connection with KKR
Iyer shares a unique bond with KKR, leading the team to IPL glory in 2024, ending a decades-long trophy drought. Under his inspiring captaincy, KKR emerged as champions after 10 years, making Iyer’s tenure unforgettable for the franchise.
However, for IPL 2025, Iyer will wear the captain’s cap Punjab Kings (PBKS)It marks a new chapter in its IPL journey. Despite his departure, KKR’s squad still has several talented players who participated in SMAT 2024 and gave excellent performances. These players, who have shone in the domestic circuit, are expected to keep KKR’s ambition alive till IPL 2025.
IPL 2025: KKR’s Top 5 Performers from SMAT 2024
1. Ajinkya Rahane (Mumbai)
Ajinkya Rahane SMAT proved to be an invaluable asset for Mumbai in 2024 and was instrumental in their title-winning campaign. The experienced batsman scored 469 runs in just 9 matches at an average of 58.62 and a remarkable strike rate of 164.56. His streak was highlighted by five half-centuries with a high score of 98.
Rahane’s ability to anchor the innings while maintaining his aggressive approach was instrumental in Mumbai’s success. His 46 boundaries and 19 sixes highlight his adaptability between phases of the game. Part of KKR in IPL 2022, Rahane’s excellent SMAT form suggests that he can remain a key player for any franchise in IPL 2025.
2. Venkatesh Iyer (Madhya Pradesh)
Venkatesh Iyer, Representing Madhya Pradesh, he displayed his all-round skills throughout the tournament. Although his team lost to Mumbai in the final, Iyer’s contributions were significant, scoring 227 runs in 10 matches at an average of 56.75 and a strike rate of 163.30. Although he did not register a fifty, his consistent performances in the middle orders kept Madhya Pradesh in the hunt during important matches. Iyer’s versatility and ability to adapt to different situations makes him an indispensable player for KKR where he has been a reliable all-rounder throughout the seasons.
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3. Rinku Singh (Uttar Pradesh)
Rinku Singh He continued his upward trajectory in SMAT 2024 with impressive performances for Uttar Pradesh. In 9 matches, he scored 277 runs at an amazing average of 69.25 and a strike rate of 152.19. Rinku’s ability to finish games was evident, with a top score of 70 and a solitary half-century to his name. His consistency and composure under pressure were crucial in UP’s run to the quarterfinals, where they eventually lost. Delhi. As a reliable finisher for KKR in IPL 2024, Rinku’s form in the SMAT cements his status as one of the most reliable middle-order players in the league.
4. Anukul Roy (Jharkhand)
Anukul Roy shone as a bright prospect for Jharkhand Delivering impressive performances with both bat and ball at SMAT 2024. Although he scored 137 runs in 7 matches with a top score of 91, it was his bowling that stood out. Roy took 8 wickets in the tournament including a brilliant 4/17. Despite Jharkhand failing to qualify for the knockouts, Roy’s contributions helped them finish third in Group C. Roy’s all-round prowess, associated with KKR, could make him a valuable asset in IPL 2025.
5. Varun Chakraborty (Tamil Nadu)
Varun Chakraborty continued to demonstrate his ability as a mystery spinner, playing a crucial role for Tamil Nadu on the SMAT 2024. In 7 matches he claimed 9 wickets at an average of 21.55 and an economy rate of 7.76. Although Tamil Nadu failed to make it past the group stage, Varu’s 3/43 in the main game showed his ability to perform under pressure. A key part of KKR’s bowling attack, Varu’s consistent performances in domestic cricket reaffirm his status as one of the best spinners in the IPL.
These KKR players not only boosted their personal stock with their performance in SMAT 2024 but also hinted at their potential impact in IPL 2025. As the franchise heads into a new season, these stars will no doubt be integral to their success.
