5 players Kolkata Knight Riders might target at IPL 2026 auction

Published - 23 Oct 2025, 16:51 IST | Updated - 23 Oct 2025, 16:54 IST

Kolkata Knight Riders head into the IPL 2026 mini auction after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The 2024 champions finished 8th on the points table last season, managing just five wins from 14 games. Their decision to release former skipper Shreyas Iyer and appoint Ajinkya Rahane as captain backfired, as several players, including Venkatesh Iyer, failed to deliver.

As the November 15 retention deadline nears, KKR is expected to retain core talents. However, with the mini auction set for December 13–15, the franchise will look to rebuild its squad smartly to regain its 2024 title-winning form. With the auctions fast approaching, it is a good time to look at five such players who might join the KKR set-up for the upcoming 2026 season.

Left-arm pacer Luke Wood could be another clinical pick for KKR in IPL 2026, especially as a replacement for Spencer Johnson, who struggled last season. Wood brings a strong experience playing in the T20 format, having taken 210 wickets in 199 matches at an economy of 8.42. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, especially back into right-handers, he provides variety to any pace attack.

His stints in global leagues such as the PSL, ILT20, and BBL make him an interesting option. Notably, Wood has the experience playing in the IPL, when he featured for the Mumbai Indians during the 2024 edition, and bagged one wicket.