5 Players who could be released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026
5 Players who could be released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026
Kolkata Knight Riders finished their IPL 2025 season in eighth place with only five wins from 14 matches. They lost seven matches and two of their games ended in no result. A lot of their players were out of form during the season and on that note, here are 5 players KKR might release.
Quinton de Kock was one of KKR's major disappointments. He scored only 152 runs in eight matches at an average of 21.71 and a strike rate of 129.91. He is most likely to be released ahead of IPL 2026, with other opening options available in the squad.
2/5Image Source : Getty
Anrich Nortje not playing more than two matches was a huge surprise in IPL 2025. Even in two matches that he played, the fast bowler picked up only one wicket and conceded 83 runs off 7 overs. Nortje's injury concerns are likely to force KKR to release him ahead of IPL 2026.
3/5Image Source : Getty
Venkatesh Iyer is most likely to be released. KKR spent Rs 23.75 crore on him at the auction, but he scored only 142 runs at an average of 20.28. He was dropped for the last few matches as well, and might as well lose his place in the squad too. KKR are likely to buy him back for a lesser price at the auction next year.
Advertisement
4/5Image Source : Getty
Rahmanullah Gurbaz was another disappointment for KKR in IPL 2025. He scored only 74 runs in five matches while opening the innings. With Rahane and Raghuvanshi being the other openers in the squad, KKR might release him and look for a better option in middle order in IPL 2026 auction.
5/5Image Source : Getty
Spencer Johnson was supposed to be Mitchell Starc's replacement in KKR squad. But the left-arm seamer from Australia disappointed big time, picking up only 1 wicket in four matches. His economy of 11.73 was the worst among KKR bowlers as well. Johnson is likely to be released as KKR will be keen on shuffling their fast bowling attack.
