The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 witnessed a captivating season of high-octane cricket, culminating in Mumbai’s emphatic triumph under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership.
SMAT 2024: A thrilling season culminates with Mumbai’s triumph
In the final held at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (December 15), Mumbai outclassed Madhya Pradesh by five wickets to clinch the trophy. The tournament saw standout performances across teams, with players stepping up to make their mark in crucial moments. From blistering knocks to game-changing bowling spells, SMAT 2024 served as a platform for players to showcase their skills ahead of the 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 , having led the team to IPL glory in 2024, ending their decade-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 don the captain’s hat for Punjab Kings (PBKS), marking a new chapter in his IPL journey. Despite his departure, KKR’s squad still boasts several talented players who participated in SMAT 2024 and delivered stellar performances. These players, shining in the domestic circuit, are expected to carry forward the momentum into IPL 2025, keeping KKR’s ambitions alive.
IPL 2025: KKR’s top 5 performers from SMAT 2024
1. Ajinkya Rahane (Mumbai)
Ajinkya Rahane proved to be an invaluable asset for Mumbai in SMAT 2024, playing a pivotal role in their title-winning campaign. The experienced batter amassed 469 runs in just 9 matches at an average of 58.62 and a remarkable strike rate of 164.56. His consistency was underlined by five half-centuries, with a top score of 98.
Rahane’s ability to anchor innings while maintaining an aggressive approach was instrumental in Mumbai’s success. His 46 boundaries and 19 sixes highlight his adaptability across phases of the game. Having been a part of KKR in IPL 2022, Rahane’s stellar SMAT form suggests he could remain a key player for any franchise in IPL 2025.
2. Venkatesh Iyer (Madhya Pradesh)
Venkatesh Iyer, representing Madhya Pradesh, showcased his all-round abilities throughout the tournament. Despite his team losing 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. While he didn’t register a fifty, his consistent performances in the middle overs kept Madhya Pradesh in the hunt during crucial matches. Iyer’s versatility and ability to adapt to different situations make him an indispensable player for KKR, where he has been a dependable all-rounder over the seasons.
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3. Rinku Singh (Uttar Pradesh)
Rinku Singh continued his upward trajectory in SMAT 2024, delivering impactful performances for Uttar Pradesh. In 9 matches, he accumulated 277 runs at an astonishing 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 calmness under pressure were crucial in UP’s journey to the quarter-finals, where they eventually lost to Delhi. As a reliable finisher for KKR in IPL 2024, Rinku’s form in SMAT cements his status as one of the most dependable middle-order batters in the league.
4. Anukul Roy (Jharkhand)
Anukul Roy shone as a bright prospect for Jharkhand in SMAT 2024, delivering impactful performances with both bat and ball. While he scored 137 runs in 7 matches with a best of 91, it was his bowling that stood out. Roy picked up 8 wickets in the tournament, including a brilliant 4/17. Despite Jharkhand failing to qualify for the knockouts, Roy’s contributions helped them secure third place in Group C. Having been associated with KKR, Roy’s all-round prowess could make him a valuable asset in IPL 2025.
5. Varun Chakravarthy (Tamil Nadu)
Varun Chakravarthy continued to demonstrate his skill as a mystery spinner, playing a crucial role for Tamil Nadu in SMAT 2024. In 7 matches, he claimed 9 wickets at an average of 21.55 and an economy of 7.76. While Tamil Nadu didn’t make it past the group stage, Varun’s 3/43 in a pivotal game showcased his ability to deliver under pressure. A key part of KKR’s bowling attack, Varun’s consistent performances in domestic cricket reaffirm his status as one of the premier spinners in the IPL.
These KKR players, with their performances in SMAT 2024, have not only boosted their personal stocks but also hinted at their potential impact in IPL 2025. While the franchise looks ahead to the new season, these stars will undoubtedly be integral to their success.
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