Why Are Moeen and Powell Missing KKR’s Remaining Matches?

Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Kolkata Knight Riders have confirmed that all-rounders Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali will miss the rest of IPL 2025 due to health issues. As the team prepares for the upcoming matches, fans are left wondering about the implications for KKR's playoff hopes.
Key Takeaways
- Rovman Powell is undergoing a medical procedure.
- Moeen Ali and his family are dealing with a viral infection.
- KKR is currently in sixth place in the IPL standings.
- Training sessions are being held at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
- IPL 2025 resumes on May 17 after a suspension.
New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) The reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced on Thursday that their all-rounders Rovman Powell and Moeen Ali will not be returning to India for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to individual medical issues. KKR confirmed that aside from Moeen and Powell, all other players, including both Indian and international members, along with support staff, have successfully reached Bengaluru.
"Both Powell and Ali are unable to return due to health concerns. Rovman is currently undergoing a medical procedure, while Moeen and his family are battling a viral infection. We wish them a speedy recovery and good health," the franchise stated.
Kolkata Knight Riders will be conducting training sessions at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Thursday evening and Friday, preparing for their upcoming match against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday, which signifies the resumption of IPL 2025.
The pivotal phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to continue from May 17 to June 3, following the BCCI's decision to pause the tournament for a week on May 9 amid escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan. The BCCI opted to restart play on May 17 after a ceasefire agreement was reached between the two nations.
Kolkata Knight Riders, led by Ajinkya Rahane, currently sit in sixth place in the points standings, having secured five victories from 12 matches. Their home match against the Punjab Kings at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata was cancelled due to rain.
To have a chance at the playoffs, KKR must win both of their remaining league fixtures and hope for favorable outcomes in other matches.
RCB, their opponents, have confirmed the arrival of players Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Lungi Ngidi, Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone, and Phil Salt. However, the availability of Australian fast-bowler Josh Hazlewood, who is dealing with a shoulder issue, remains uncertain. RCB is currently in second place in the standings with 16 points, tied with the Gujarat Titans for the top spot but with a slightly lower net run rate. They still have another match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) scheduled for May 25.