Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Sunil Narine is prepared to take on the role of an opener once again if the team needs him. The mystery spinner shocked everyone in 2017 when he started opening for KKR and provided explosive starts at the top. Though his batting form dipped between 2021 and 2023, he found success in 2024 under Gautam Gambhir’s mentorship. Last season, he scored 488 runs at an impressive strike rate of nearly 181, registering three fifties and a century. Speaking to the media ahead of KKR’s IPL 2025 opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Narine stated that he is ready to step up as an opener if the team requires it. "It depends on the team's needs. Obviously, I'd love to open after how things went last year, but it will be based on the team's requirements," Sunil Narine said in Kolkata. Narine recently played in the ILT20 for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, where he batted in the middle order instead of opening. However, he remains flexible about his role and is willing to contribute in any way the team needs. "Cricket has evolved so much; you have to evolve with it. At times, you need to contribute with both bat and ball. It's all about confidence and belief in your ability. You have a God-given talent, and you try to make the best out of it," Narine said. 'KKR feels like family' Over the years, Narine has been a core member of the Knight Riders franchise across multiple leagues. From the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL to Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ILT20, he has remained a loyal player to the franchise around the globe. Also Read: Riyan Parag to captain Rajasthan Royals in first 3 matches Reflecting on his long association with the team, Narine shared how KKR has become more than just a franchise for him. "Starting off, franchise cricket felt like just another tournament. But as time went along, you developed a relationship, and it became like a family. This is going to be my 14th year in the IPL. I've played with them outside of IPL as well," he said. He further added: "It's like a family-based team for me. Every time I play with the Knight Riders logo, it feels like this is where I belong." KKR will be led by Ajinkya Rahane in IPL 2025 following Shreyas Iyer’s departure. The defending champions will begin their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens on March 22.