Kolkata Knight Riders Eye Major Changes Ahead of IPL 2026
Kolkata Knight Riders' Potential Overhaul
Following a disappointing performance in the IPL 2025 season, where they finished eighth, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly planning a significant team overhaul. A key focus for the franchise is their interest in acquiring Indian cricket star KL Rahul, potentially offering him the captaincy to spearhead a fresh start.
As the mega-auction for IPL 2026 approaches, KKR faces crucial decisions regarding player releases to free up funds and overseas slots. Securing a high-profile player like Rahul will not be straightforward, and the team may need to part ways with several underperforming players who do not align with their long-term vision. Here are five players who might be at risk:
Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer, retained for a hefty Rs 23.75 crore, had a lackluster IPL 2025, managing only 142 runs in 11 matches with an average of 20.29. Once seen as a promising all-rounder, his performance fell short of expectations. Given his high retention cost and inconsistent contributions, KKR may consider releasing him, possibly to re-sign at a lower price or to seek better value elsewhere.
Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock showed moments of brilliance, including a notable unbeaten 97 in one match, but his overall performance was inconsistent, finishing the season with just 152 runs in 8 innings at an average of 21.71. With KL Rahul capable of taking on wicket-keeping duties and Rahmanullah Gurbaz already in the squad, letting go of De Kock, who was acquired for Rs 3.6 crore, could open up a valuable overseas slot and enhance the team's auction strategy.
Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane, who took over the captaincy in 2025 after Shreyas Iyer's exit, began the season with a promising 56 but struggled to lead the team to consistent victories. If KKR successfully recruits Rahul as both captain and top-order batsman, Rahane's Rs 1.5 crore contract and position may come under scrutiny. His release could create opportunities for emerging Indian talent or more explosive batting options.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Another overseas wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, had a subdued IPL 2025, averaging just 18.5 over five games, albeit with a strike rate of 139.62. If KKR opts to invest in KL Rahul as their primary keeper, Gurbaz's role may become redundant. Parting ways with him would free up an additional overseas slot, allowing KKR to focus on strengthening other key areas during the auction.
Spencer Johnson
Spencer Johnson was brought in to enhance the pace attack but failed to deliver the expected impact. Acquired for Rs 2.8 crore, he struggled with both form and economy, taking only a handful of wickets. KKR might consider releasing him to pursue more reliable overseas fast bowlers at the mega-auction, aiming to build a stronger and more balanced bowling lineup.
If KKR can successfully negotiate the acquisition of KL Rahul, it could mark a pivotal moment for the franchise. However, making tough decisions about underperforming or surplus players will be essential to reconstructing a competitive and cohesive team for IPL 2026.