The Current Team
The much-anticipated IPL mega auction, set for November 24 and 25, presents an exciting opportunity for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to fine-tune their squad. Although KKR have retained six key players, they’ll be eager to address specific gaps to achieve a balanced lineup ahead of the new campaign. After last season’s success, the franchise faces heightened expectations from a passionate fanbase. KKR’s retained players are Rinku Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, and Ramandeep Singh.
The Auction purse for KKR
KKR have invested 57 crores in player retentions, but under the IPL rules, their spending has been adjusted by 69 crore, reducing their auction budget to 51 crore. With a solid foundation in their retained players, KKR is well-positioned for the upcoming season. Rinku and Chakaravarthy have shown consistent growth, while veterans Narine and Russell remain integral to the team. Additionally, Harshit and Ramandeep, who impressed last season, bolster an already strong core.
Areas to strengthen
One of KKR’s major challenges for this auction will be addressing the departure of former captain Shreyas Iyer, who played a key role in leading them to IPL success. KKR’s top priority will be to find a leader capable of steering the side forward, filling Iyer’s impactful role. Additionally, the absence of Phil Salt, who formed an explosive opening combination with Narine, leaves a void in the top order. Finding an opener and wicketkeeper with similar attacking potential will be crucial to replicate last season’s powerful starts. KKR are also expected to focus on strengthening their middle order by investing in reliable batters who can anchor the innings and finish strong, ensuring depth and stability that could give them a competitive edge in the tournament.
Players likely to be targeted
KKR have their sights set on Jos Buttler, whose explosive T20 ability makes him an ideal fit, potentially filling the role Salt had last season as a dynamic opener and wicketkeeper. Known for his game-changing impact, Buttler would add the X-factor KKR seek. For the captaincy role, Rishabh Pant stands out as their top target, though competition for him will be fierce, with many franchises eyeing the Indian wicketkeeper. Additionally, KKR are considering young talent Umran Malik, whose pace could improve their attack. Promising domestic players like Anshul Kamboj and TanushKotian are also on KKR’s radar, offering depth and fresh potential to round out the squad.
Players likely to be bought back
KKR have always fostered a close-knit, family-like environment, making it likely they’ll aim to bring back familiar faces to retain team cohesion. Nitish Rana and Venkatesh Iyer top their priority list for re-signing – both have been valuable assets, with Rana offering not just batting ability but also the potential to step in as captain if KKR can’t secure a leader elsewhere. Iyer, who has openly expressed his desire to rejoin the squad, is another key target KKR will pursue vigorously. Additionally, Vaibhav Arora, who impressed with the ball last season, is another player KKR hope to re-sign, aiming to keep the core strong and familiar for the upcoming season. With the auction right around the corner, it will fascinating to witness how these plans can be executedat the auction.
🚨 #AuctionSpecial with RevSportz! Breaking down each team’s strategy for the #IPLAuction2025.
Starting with @KKRiders at Eden Gardens – what will their auction dynamics look like? Tune in 👇@BoriaMajumdar @debasissen @CricSubhayan @shamik100 @OfficialFanatic #IPL2025 @IPL pic.twitter.com/rdYrCCVIgP
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) November 14, 2024
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