KKR retained just 12 players to maximize flexibility, among the lowest of all franchises
Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane and some key players have been retained
The franchise enters the mini-auction with a massive ₹64.30 crore purse, the highest among all teams
IPL 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders Retained And Released Players List
Kolkata Knight Riders reveal their IPL 2026 retained and released players, available purse, key squad changes, and plans ahead of the mini-auction as the franchise prepares for a major rebuild
Summary
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are making bold moves heading into the IPL 2026 mini-auction, signaling a clear reset after a disappointing campaign. Known for its passionate fanbase and purple-and-gold swagger, KKR is balancing youth and experience to rebuild a competitive core. With ₹64.30 crore in the bank, the highest purse among all franchises, they’re well placed to be major players in Abu Dhabi this December.
The franchise has opted to retain a tight-knit, trusted group, while cutting loose some big names. By doing so, KKR is aiming to reshape the side around a fresh core, rather than doubling down on aging or underperforming stars.
Strategic Core Retained by KKR
KKR’s retention list reflects a thoughtful mix of match-winners and dynamic youth. Rinku Singh, their explosive middle-order batter, remains locked in at a hefty contract (₹ 13 Cr), providing a power punch.
Varun Chakravarthy, their crafty spinner, is also retained (₹ 12 Cr), giving them vital spin control. Sunil Narine, ever the utility force, continues to feature as both a spinner and a pinch-hitting batter (₹ 12 Cr).
The retained crop also includes Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey, Rovman Powell, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Ramandeep Singh, and Anukul Roy, giving the team a balanced core spanning all departments.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Released Players
In a surprising turn, KKR has released several heavyweight names. Andre Russell, who has been a match-winner for years, has been let go, a decision that underscores their intent to move on.
They’ve also parted ways with Venkatesh Iyer, their big-money all-rounder, and overseas stars Quinton de Kock, Moeen Ali, and Anrich Nortje. By releasing these players, KKR are freeing up slots and money to re-tool aggressively.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Retained Players
12 players retained | 2 overseas | Total spent: ₹60.70 | Cap remaining: ₹64.30
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Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, *Rovman Powell, *Sunil Narine, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy
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