Defending champions in 2024, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing a lowly eighth in the points table.
With the team failing to replicate its past success, the franchise - a three-time IPL winner - is planning a major shake-up ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
While the upcoming mini auction may not allow for an extensive overhaul, KKR are expected to release several underperforming names to free up funds and inject fresh talent into the squad.
During the previous retention window, KKR had retained key players such as Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ramandeep Singh, and Harshit Rana. However, with their 2025 campaign faltering, not all of them are certain to stay this time.
Among those under the scanner are two players who were part of last season's retention list - Andre Russell and Ramandeep Singh.
Andre Russell's Future in Doubt
A KKR legend and one of their biggest match-winners over the years, Russell's recent form has been a shadow of his prime. The Caribbean all-rounder endured a rough IPL 2025, managing only 167 runs in 13 matches at a modest average of 18.56. With the ball, he picked up 8 wickets, but his economy rate of 11.94 proved costly. Given his declining impact and high price tag, the Knight Riders may finally part ways with the veteran to explore a younger, long-term all-round option for the future.
Ramandeep Singh Could Also Be Released
Another player likely to make way is Ramandeep Singh, who impressed initially with his athleticism and sharp fielding. However, his contributions with the bat have been inconsistent, and KKR might now look for a more reliable middle-order finisher to add depth and stability to their batting unit.
Besides Russell and Ramandeep, other names who are on the potential release list include Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, Rovman Powell, Spencer Johnson, Chetan Sakariya, Anrich Nortje, and Anukul Roy.
With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, KKR's focus will be on rebuilding a squad capable of restoring their winning legacy.
