Kolkata Knight Riders Part Ways with Head Coach Chandrakant Pandit
Kolkata Knight Riders Announce Coaching Change
In a recent announcement, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) confirmed that head coach Chandrakant Pandit will be leaving the team, concluding a four-year period filled with both challenges and successes, including a notable IPL championship victory in 2024.
The franchise shared the news on their social media channels, stating, "Mr. Chandrakant Pandit has chosen to pursue new opportunities and will not continue as Head Coach of Kolkata Knight Riders."
Pandit, who is well-regarded in the Indian domestic coaching scene, took charge of KKR before the 2022 season. His initial two seasons saw the team struggle, finishing in the lower half of the standings. However, in 2024, his leadership proved pivotal as he led the franchise to its third IPL title, marking their first win in a decade.
In their statement, KKR expressed gratitude for Pandit's significant contributions, highlighting his role in securing the TATA IPL Championship in 2024 and in developing a robust and resilient team. They noted, "His leadership and discipline have made a lasting impression on the squad."
The franchise also conveyed their best wishes for Pandit's future endeavors, stating, "We wish him all the very best for the future."
https://x.com/KKRiders/status/1950170355462504791
During his first season in 2022, KKR recorded six wins against eight losses, finishing in seventh place. The following year mirrored this performance, with another seventh-place finish and the same win-loss record. However, 2024 marked a turning point, as KKR excelled under Pandit's guidance, ultimately claiming the IPL trophy.
Regrettably, the momentum did not carry into the 2025 season, as KKR struggled again, securing only five wins and finishing eighth, thus missing the playoffs for the third time in four seasons under his leadership.