Credit: APL 2025
In the Andhra Premier League (APL) 2025 opener between Kakinada Kings and Capital Amaravathi Royals at the ACA VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, the former’s captain KS Bharat looked in sensational touch with his bat. After the early departure of Pitta Arjun Tendulkar, Bharat showcased his fierce side with his bat and shattered Amaravathi bowling unit’s confidence. The 31-year-old reached his fifty off just 23 balls.
With KP Sai Rahul, Kings’ skipper built a mammoth 183-run stand for the second wicket off just 90 balls. Bharat couldn’t complete his hundred as he fell against Santosh Kumar in the 18th over of the game and concluded his knock after amassing 93 off just 46.
KS Bharat's potent innings solidified Kings’ position in the first half of the match. His batting effort helped Kakinada to put up a massive total of 229/5 in 20 overs. After his dismissal, Bharat looked unhappy with Santosh's send-off, who gave a tough time to him and Sai Rahul in the same over.
KP Sai Rahul produced a majestic knock in APL 2025 opener
Alongside KS Bharat, KP Sai Rahul also displayed his batting belligerence. He complemented his captain and built pressure on bowlers consistently. Rahul racked up his half century in just 27 deliveries. Santosh Kumar ended his superb 96-run knock which came in only 49 balls. His innings included 14 boundaries (five fours and nine sixes).
The remarkable efforts of Bharat and Rahul emboldened the confidence of Mitta Lekhaz Reddy, who came to bat at number five and hoarded unbeaten 14 runs off just five balls. Reddy hammered a couple of fours against Battina Yashwanth in the final over. Amaravathi are tasked to chase a humongous target of 230 to kick off their campaign with a victory.
