The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 witnessed an enthralling season of high-octane cricket, culminating in a resounding triumph for Mumbai under Shreyas Iyer's leadership.

SMAT 2024: An exciting season culminates with Mumbai's triumph

In the final held at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday (December 15), Mumbai beat Madhya Pradesh by five wickets to win the trophy. The tournament saw outstanding performances from all teams, with players stepping up to make their mark at key moments. From scintillating shots to game-changing bowling, SMAT 2024 served as a platform for players to showcase their skills in front of 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 bond 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 inspirational captaincy, KKR became champions after 10 years, making Iyer's tenure a memorable one for the franchise.

However, for IPL 2025, Iyer will don the captain's hat Punjab Kings (PBKS)marking a new chapter in his IPL journey. Despite his departure, the KKR squad still has several talented players who participated in the SMAT 2024 and gave great performances. These players, who shine in the domestic circuit, are expected to carry 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 key role in their title campaign. The experienced batsman has amassed 469 runs in just 9 matches at an average of 58.62 and an amazing strike rate of 164.56. His consistency was underlined by five half-centuries, with a top score of 98.

Rahane's ability to anchor the innings while maintaining an aggressive approach was key to Mumbai's success. His 46 boundaries and 19 sixes highlight his adaptability in all phases of the game. Having been a part of KKR in IPL 2022, Rahane's stellar SMAT form suggests that he could remain a key player for any franchise in IPL 2025.

2. Venkatesh Iyer (Madhya Pradesh)

Venkatesh Iyer, representing Madhya Pradesh, he showcased his all-round ability throughout the tournament. Despite his team losing to Mumbai in the final, Iyer's contribution was significant, scoring 227 runs in 10 matches at an average of 56.75 and a strike rate of 163.30. Although he did not score a fifty, his consistent play 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 reliable all-rounder over the seasons.

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3. Rinku Singh (Uttar Pradesh)

Rinku Singh continued his upward trajectory in SMAT 2024, delivering an impressive performance 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 matches was evident, with a top score of 70 and a solitary half-century to his name. His consistency and composure under pressure were crucial to UP's run to the quarterfinals, where they eventually lost to 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 in SMAT 2024, delivering impressive performances with bat and ball. Although he scored 137 runs in 7 matches with a best of 91, his bowling particularly 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 contribution helped them secure third place in Group C. Having been linked with KKR, Roy's all-round skill could make him valuable in IPL 2025.

5. Varun Chakraborty (Tamil Nadu)

Varun Chakraborty continued to demonstrate his skill as a mystery spinner, playing a key role for Tamil Nadu in SMAT 2024. In 7 matches, he took 9 wickets at an average of 21.55 and an economy of 7.76. While Tamil Nadu failed to make it past the group stage, Varun's 3/43 in the crucial game showed his ability to perform under pressure. A key part of KKR's bowling attack, Varun's consistent performances in domestic cricket confirm his status as one of the best spinners in the IPL.

These KKR players, with their performances in SMAT 2024, not only boosted their personal stocks but also hinted at their potential impact in IPL 2025. As the franchise looks ahead to the new season, these stars will undoubtedly be integral to their success.

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