Welcome to our IPL 2026 Release List Series, where we explore every team and the tough choices they face before the next auction. Now, we turn the spotlight on Kolkata Knight Riders.
Kolkata Knight Riders will arrive at the auction with the biggest war chest and that’s exactly why ruthless housekeeping is required. With a bloated overseas contingent and a few expensive, high-risk contracts, the Knight Riders should cash in smartly and chase two quality foreigners (one obvious target: Cameron Green) to rebalance the side.
Here are five names KKR should seriously consider releasing and why:
1️⃣ Venkatesh Iyer – All-rounder – ₹23.75 crore
Iyer’s talent is unquestioned, but his high price tag has become difficult to justify. While he showed intent, his returns with both bat and ball haven’t matched his valuation. KKR could release him and look to buy him back cheaper, freeing up crucial funds to strengthen other key areas.
2️⃣ Anrich Nortje – Fast Bowler – ₹6.5 crore
Nortje’s pace is elite, but injuries have severely limited his availability. KKR needs reliability in their bowling lineup, especially through the season’s crunch phases. Releasing him could allow the team to invest in a fitter overseas pacer who can feature regularly.
3️⃣ Quinton de Kock – Wicketkeeper-Batter – ₹3.6 crore
De Kock’s T20 stocks have declined, with inconsistent performances and limited impact at the top. For an overseas slot, KKR might prefer a younger, more adaptable opener or finisher who can sustain tempo throughout the innings.
4️⃣ Spencer Johnson – Fast Bowler – ₹2.8 crore
Johnson showed promise but failed to break into the XI consistently. With multiple overseas pacers options in the market, KKR could release him and redirect that budget toward a higher-impact foreign player.
5️⃣ Moeen Ali – All-rounder – ₹2 crore
Moeen remains a respected name, but his T20 impact has waned with time. With his role overlapping existing spin options and the need for more explosive finishers, KKR could release him to create space for a foreign all-rounder better suited to current demands.
With several high-value releases, KKR could enter the auction with the biggest purse in IPL 2026. The focus should be on acquiring two quality foreign players, one of whom could be Cameron Green, a perfect fit for KKR’s balance and future plans.
Kolkata Knight Riders fans: it’s time to think long-term. Who would you keep, and who would you release? Let’s hear your thoughts below before we move to the next team’s release list!
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