Kolkata Knight Riders: 3 overseas players KKR will retain ahead of IPL 2026 auction

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The Kolkata Knight Riders are poised for a significant squad refresh heading into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, especially after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign where they failed to make the playoffs.

For a team aiming to bounce back and vie for their fourth title, overseas players remain absolutely critical to the core strategy. These international stars often bring a unique blend of experience, match-winning ability, and skill specialization, particularly as elite all-rounders and express pace bowlers, that is difficult to find in the domestic circuit.

They are the X-factors that provide crucial balance and depth, allowing the team to successfully navigate the league’s competitive balance of Indian and foreign talent. Retaining a strong, high-impact foreign core, particularly in key roles like finisher or spin-mystery, is paramount. The right overseas picks will free up their purse to secure top-tier Indian talent, ensuring a robust, versatile, and balanced squad for the upcoming season. KKR’s decisions will focus on preserving match-winners and releasing underperforming high-cost players.

1. Sunil Narine (All-Rounder)

Sunil Narine has consistently been one of KKR’s most integral players since his debut in 2012, making his retention highly probable.

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2. Andre Russell (All-Rounder)

Andre Russell is a perennial match-winner whose destructive power-hitting and death-overs bowling make him a vital asset, guaranteeing his retention despite occasional fitness concerns.

3. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper-Batter)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz, despite his promise, is generally viewed as a likely release candidate as KKR seeks more consistent options at the top of the order.

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