Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have appointed former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson as their new assistant coach ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The three-time IPL winners made the announcement on Thursday, November 13. Watson’s inclusion in the coaching set-up is expected to be beneficial in helping the team bounce back stronger in the upcoming season.
KKR CEO Venky Mysore welcomed Watson, saying: “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.”
Watson also shared his excitement about joining the team, saying:
“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.”
One of the most successful all-rounders to have played the game, Watson represented Australia in 59 Tests, 190 ODIs, and 58 T20Is, scoring 10,950 runs and taking 291 wickets. During his decorated IPL career, he featured for three different franchises between 2008 and 2020, playing 145 matches. Before joining KKR, Watson served in a similar coaching role at Delhi Capitals.
The upcoming season will mark Watson’s return to a coaching position in the IPL after three years.
Watson’s appointment follows KKR’s announcement last month of Abhishek Nayar as their new head coach, after parting ways with Chandrakant Pandit in July 2025.
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