IPL 2026: Shane Watson appointed assistant coach of Kolkata Knight Riders

Published - 13 Nov 2025, 13:40 IST | Updated - 13 Nov 2025, 14:01 IST

The Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson as their assistant coach ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League. The three-time champions have officially confirmed the development. He will now be the deputy to Abhishek Nayar, who was recently appointed as the head coach.

Watson expressed his delight upon being onboarded as the assistant coach at the franchise. The legendary all-rounder said that he is excited to start his work with the side and help them get closer to their fourth title in the cash-rich tournament.

"It’s a great honour to be part of a franchise as iconic as Kolkata Knight Riders. I’ve always admired the passion of KKR fans and the team’s commitment to excellence. I’m eager to work closely with the coaching group and players to help bring another title to Kolkata," Watson was quoted in the official media statement by KKR on Thursday, November 13.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family. His experience as a player and coach at the highest level will add immense value to our team culture and preparation. His understanding of the T20 format is world-class, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field,” KKR CEO Venky Mysore said of Watson.

Speaking of Watson's record in the Indian Premier League, he was part of Rajasthan Royals' squad in the inaugural season, where the Jaipur-based franchise lifted the title. Watson played a huge part in the debut season, and also emerged as the Most Valuable Player of the 2008 edition of the cash-rich tournament. He has also played for successful franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings.

With 145 matches in his IPL career, the Queensland-born made an impressive, 3874 runs, also picking 92 wickets. He is among the most accomplished overseas player to have played the IPL with four centuries and 21 half-centuries to his name and a four-wicket haul as well. KKR will hope that Watson's experience helps them make a comeback after a disappointing end to the 2025 season.