IPL 2026: KKR should release Venkatesh Iyer and target these three players ahead of auction

Published - 11 Oct 2025, 16:00 IST | Updated - 11 Oct 2025, 14:43 IST

All-rounder Venkatesh Iyer’s underwhelming 2025 IPL season has put Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a big decision to make ahead of the 2026 edition. After being acquired for a whopping INR 23.75 crore, the franchise and the fans had high hopes from the all-rounder who played an important role in KKR’s previous campaigns. However, his performances failed to justify the investment.

Despite being seen as a potential leader and vice-captain, Iyer struggled to find form with the bat, scoring only 142 runs in 11 matches at an average of 20.29 and a strike rate of 139.22. Furthermore, he wasn’t used as a bowler, reducing his value as a multi-dimensional player. His form dip coincided with KKR’s disappointing season, where the defending champions finished eighth.

By releasing Iyer, KKR could free up close to INR 24 crore, giving them the option to sign two or three impact players during the 2026 auction. However, the franchise may still look to re-acquire him at a lower price at the mini-auction.

Kolkata Knight Riders can look at experienced pacer Harshal Patel for the upcoming season. Despite an inconsistent run with Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2025, where he took 16 wickets in 13 matches at an economy of 9.80, Harshal’s variations and death-over brilliance make him a valuable addition. It is worth noting, the 34-year-old previously bagged the Purple Cap in IPL 2021 and 2024 with 32 and 24 wickets for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings, respectively.

KKR could target Harshal to strengthen their death bowling, an area they struggled with in IPL 2025. His experience across 119 IPL matches and a track record of 151 wickets make him a dependable pick. Recently, Harshal also returned to Gujarat after 14 years with Haryana. If released by SRH, KKR’s interest in the veteran pacer could turn out to be a smart move ahead of IPL 2026.