Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are entering an important phase as they are getting ready for the IPL 2026 auction later this year. After a disappointing 2025 campaign where they struggled to find consistency, the franchise will be looking to rebuild its squad.
The main question now appears is, who will Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) retain, and who will they release? Let’s take a closer look at what their strategy might be and why certain players could stay or go.
KKR’s Current Situation
KKR entered the 2025 season full of confidence after their thrilling 2024 championship win. Nevertheless, the season turned out to be disappointing for KKR. Poor performances, injuries, and a weak middle order cost them important matches, and they eventually finished 8th in the standings. So this result made the team management reconsider their strategy for future plans.
Heading into the 2026 auction, KKR’s goal will be to retain a strong Indian core, release expensive or injury-prone overseas players, and create more financial room to target new talent.
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Players Likely to Be Released
7. Chetan Sakariya: He played only one match and didn’t make much impact. Releasing him helps the team manage its domestic player budget better.
6. Mayank Markande: Mayank Markande, didn’t get a game as Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy led the spin attack. With both spinners likely to stay, Markande may again struggle for opportunities, he is another likely release.
5. Anukul Roy: A talented all-rounder, but with very few opportunities in 2025, he might be released as KKR already have a crowded spin department.
4. Anrich Nortje: The South African pacer has battled injuries for the past two years. KKR could release him to open up an overseas slot for a more reliable fast bowler.
3. Spencer Johnson: The Australian left-arm pacer was bought for 2.80 crore, he struggled with control throughout the season. Considering his limited impact, KKR might release him and look for a steadier overseas quick.
2. Andre Russell: A KKR legend for over a decade, Russell’s power-hitting days seem behind him. Frequent injuries and poor 2025 form have raised questions about his fitness. KKR may finally move on from him.
1. Venkatesh Iyer: Bought for ₹23.75 crore ahead of IPL 2025, Venkatesh failed to justify the massive price tag. Inconsistent with the bat and underused with the ball, he is expected to be released to free up funds. KKR may release him and get him again in the auction at a lesser price.
Why these players may go?
KKR’s main issues in 2025 were injuries, high player costs, and underperformance. Releasing these names allows the team to rebuild with fresher, fitter, and more cost-effective talent.
What Could Be KKR’s Strategy?
KKR will aim to strike a balance between youth and experience. Their scouting team has a strong record of spotting hidden domestic gems, so expect them to look at emerging Indian batters and medium pacers. Overseas, they might chase all-rounders who can perform under pressure and stay fit throughout the season.
The franchise may also seek to strengthen leadership options, as the 2025 campaign showed that too much reliance on a few senior players can backfire.
Conclusion
KKR’s next season will depend heavily on how they rebuild after this reset. By trusting young Indian talent and letting go of expensive, inconsistent names, they have a real chance to bounce back strong in IPL 2026. The purple and gold fans will be hoping this new chapter brings back the energy and dominance of 2024, but with smarter, fresher faces leading the way.
Written by Kinjal Walantra