KKR Released Players List Before IPL 2026 Auction
The IPL 2026 Auction is on the horizon, and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the three-time IPL champions, are preparing to make pivotal decisions to strengthen their squad after a lackluster IPL 2025 season. Finishing mid-table with six wins in 14 matches, KKR struggled with inconsistency from some key players, prompting a potential squad overhaul. Below is a detailed look at the likely KKR Released Players List, the reasons behind these releases, and how KKR plans to reshape their team for IPL 2026.
KKR Released Players List for IPL 2026 Auction
Kolkata Knight Riders are known for retaining a strong core, but the IPL 2026 Auction offers a chance to address gaps in their lineup. The KKR Released Players List is expected to include players who underperformed or no longer fit into the franchise’s long-term vision.
Likely Final KKR Released Players List
- Quinton de Kock
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Andre Russell
- Moeen Ali
- Rovman Powell
- Anrich Nortje
- Spencer Johnson
- Anukul Roy
- Chetan Sakariya
- Shivam Shukla
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Manish Pandey
Big Players Who Feature in KKR Released Players List Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
The KKR Released Players List includes several high-profile names, with KKR aiming to free up budget and overseas slots for strategic acquisitions. Here’s a closer look at the big players likely to be released and the reasons behind their inclusion in the KKR Released Players List:
Venkatesh Iyer
KKR invested heavily in Venkatesh Iyer during the previous auction, spending INR 23.75 crores to bring him back. However, the 30-year-old all-rounder struggled in IPL 2025, scoring 142 runs in 11 matches at an average of just over 20 and taking only four wickets. His inability to justify the high price tag makes him a prime candidate for the KKR Released Players List, with the franchise potentially looking to buy him back at a lower cost.
Quinton de Kock
After failing to secure Phil Salt in the previous auction, KKR roped in Quinton de Kock as their top-order wicketkeeper-batsman. The South African started strongly with an unbeaten 97* in his second game but faded, managing 152 runs in 8 matches at an average of 21.71. His inconsistent form places him on the KKR Released Players List, as KKR seek a more reliable opener.
Andre Russell
Andre Russell, once a cornerstone of KKR’s success, had a disappointing IPL 2025. The 37-year-old all-rounder scored 167 runs in 13 matches at an average of 18.57 and took eight wickets at an expensive economy rate of 11.94. With concerns over his form, fitness, and workload, Russell’s inclusion in the KKR Released Players List reflects KKR’s focus on building a younger, more consistent squad.
Moeen Ali
The English all-rounder was signed as a backup for Sunil Narine but saw limited opportunities in IPL 2025. Moeen’s modest contributions with bat and ball, coupled with the need to free up an overseas slot, make him a likely candidate for the KKR Released Players List. His release will provide KKR with additional budget flexibility for the auction.
Likely KKR Squad Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
Here’s how the KKR squad might look after retentions and releases:
Category: Retained
Ajinkya Rahane (c), Rinku Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Luvnith Sisodia, Ramandeep Singh, Vaibhav Arora, Sunil Narine, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, Umran Malik, Mayank Markande.
Category: Released
Quinton de Kock, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Rovman Powell, Anrich Nortje, Spencer Johnson, Anukul Roy, Chetan Sakariya, Shivam Shukla, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Manish Pandey.
Captaincy Status
Ajinkya Rahane is expected to continue as captain for IPL 2026, though his leadership was challenged by KKR’s mid-table finish in 2025. The franchise may seek a new captaincy option in the auction to bolster their leadership group.
KKR Targets at IPL 2026 Auction in Place of Released Players
With the KKR Released Players List creating room in the budget and overseas slots, KKR are poised to target high-impact players to strengthen their squad. Here are some potential replacements:
Sanju Samson for Quinton de Kock
With rumors of Sanju Samson potentially being traded from Rajasthan Royals, KKR could target the wicketkeeper-batsman to replace de Kock. Samson’s ability to anchor the innings and provide leadership makes him an ideal fit, addressing both batting and captaincy needs.
Cameron Green for Andre Russell
To replace Russell’s all-round prowess, KKR may pursue Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. Green’s ability to bat in the top five, bowl his full quota of overs, and contribute in the field makes him a perfect like-for-like replacement.
Matt Henry for Anrich Nortje
New Zealand pacer Matt Henry could be targeted to replace Anrich Nortje, who struggled with consistency in IPL 2025. Henry’s control and wicket-taking ability in the powerplay and death overs make him a valuable addition to KKR’s bowling attack.
FAQs
Which players could be released by KKR?
Possible releases include Quinton de Kock, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, and others listed in the KKR Released Players List.
Who will KKR target in place of Quinton de Kock at IPL 2026 Auction?
KKR may target Sanju Samson (via trade) or a young wicketkeeper-batsman like Jamie Smith to replace de Kock.
Who will KKR target in place of Andre Russell at IPL 2026 Auction?
Cameron Green is a likely target to replace Russell, offering all-round skills and long-term potential.
Who will KKR target in place of Anrich Nortje at IPL 2026 Auction?
Matt Henry could be pursued as a replacement for Nortje, bringing consistency and wicket-taking ability.
