Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the IPL 2024 champions, have announced their player retention list for the 2026 season, signalling major changes to their squad structure after a disappointing 2025 campaign. Despite their recent struggles, the franchise looks determined to rebuild around a younger, more balanced core while maintaining key match-winners like Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, and Varun Chakravarthy.
In a move that surprised many fans, KKR have decided to part ways with two of their senior all-rounders—Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer—both of whom have been pivotal to the team’s success in past seasons. This decision marks a strategic shift toward developing emerging talent and addressing consistency issues that plagued the side last year. The addition of young pacers, dependable middle-order batsmen, and a sizeable auction purse indicates KKR’s plan for a more flexible team composition.
Among the retained players are Rinku Singh, the face of KKR’s batting resurgence, along with Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, and hard-hitting West Indian Rovman Powell. Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, and Harshit Rana lead the bowling front, combining spin experience with raw pace. The franchise has also traded for Arjun Tendulkar from Mumbai Indians in a promising move to deepen their domestic pace options.
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Players released from the squad include Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Moeen Ali, Spencer Johnson, and Anrich Nortje—indicating a clear shift in overseas strategy. With 13 slots open, including six for foreign players, and a remaining purse of Rs 64.3 crore, KKR are well-positioned to make impactful signings at the upcoming IPL 2026 auction. Insiders suggest the team may prioritize a high-quality death bowler, a power-hitting finisher, and a reliable top-order overseas batter.
After missing the playoffs in 2025, KKR are expected to focus on depth and adaptability heading into the new season. Under the guidance of their think tank and coaching staff, the franchise aims to rediscover the balance that drove their 2024 championship run. With a strong foundation and ample resources, Kolkata Knight Riders appear set for a determined comeback in IPL 2026.
Also Read: Chennai Super Kings Reveal IPL 2026 Retention List: Big Changes, Jadeja and Curran Released