The 2024 Champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), finished 8th on the points table in 2025 with just 5 wins out of 14 matches. As the BCCI has set the deadline for franchises to submit the retention and released players list by November 15, and with the auction set to be held around December 13–15, here are the top 5 players KKR might release ahead of IPL 2026. Following are the players KKR might release ahead of Mini auction.
5. Ajinkya Rahane
After going unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction, KKR signed Rahane for his base price during the accelerated round and handed him the captaincy role to fill Shreyas Iyer’s spot. Except for his opening match, Rahane failed to impress with the bat. Even his captaincy was questioned by many experts and fans. Hence, KKR might release Rahane and look for a new captain.
4. Quinton de Kock
When Quinton de Kock joined KKR, fans were thrilled, expecting the experienced wicketkeeper-batter and aggressive opener to strengthen their top order. However, he failed to deliver. In eight matches, de Kock managed only 152 runs at an average of 21.71 and a strike rate of 129.91. If KKR releases the 32-year-old, they will free up INR 3.6 crore.
3. Spencer Johnson
KKR signed Spencer Johnson for ₹2.8 crore in the mega auction, expecting him to strengthen their pace attack. His height and ability to swing the new ball made him a promising prospect. However, the 29-year-old couldn’t adjust well to the demands and pressure of the IPL. Across four appearances, he picked up only one wicket and proved expensive, finishing with an economy rate of 11.74.
2. Anrich Nortje
Nortje’s career has been plagued by injuries, and he continues to suffer from them frequently. Looking for an experienced pacer to lead the attack, KKR signed Anrich Nortje for ₹6.50 crore at the mega auction, but he failed to make an impact. He played only 2 matches, conceding runs at an economy rate of 11.86 and picking up just 1 wicket in the 7 overs he bowled.
1. Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer, who was among the top players and fetched a massive bid of ₹23.75 crore, did not justify his price tag with his performance last season. Iyer has been with KKR since 2021 and has played several vital knocks for the franchise. However, his poor form last year may cost him his place in the 2026 squad. KKR is likely to release Iyer to free up ₹23.75 crore.
Written By:- Manjunath S
