As soon as the IPL retention window closed, all eyes shifted towards the upcoming IPL 2026 Mini Auction. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), owned by Shah Rukh Khan, are entering the auction with the highest purse value, giving them the opportunity to rebuild their squad after a disappointing last season. With a strong intent to revamp the bowling unit, the franchise has reportedly shortlisted a few top-quality bowlers ahead of the auction.
নিলামে এই তিন ক্রিকেটারের জন্য টাকা ঝুলি খুলতে পারে শাহরুখের দল!
The 2025 IPL season turned out to be a nightmare for KKR. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the team lost several easy matches and ended the league stage in eighth place. For a three-time champion, such a season was extremely hard to digest. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, the management is now focused on strengthening the bowling department for IPL 2026.
1. Matheesha Pathirana – Released by CSK, Now on KKR’s Radar
According to sources, Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is one of KKR’s top targets. After not being retained by CSK, the young yorker specialist is expected to attract heavy bidding in the auction. His accuracy, raw pace, and deadly death-over bowling could bring a new dimension to the KKR pace attack.
2. Ravi Bishnoi – The Middle-Overs Wicket-Getter KKR Wants
Another name strongly linked to KKR is Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was surprisingly released from Sanjiv Goenka’s Lucknow franchise. Known for his consistent wicket-taking ability in the middle overs and deceptive googlies, Bishnoi is expected to be one of the hottest picks in the mini auction. KKR may even consider building their spin attack around him.
3. Reece Topley – The Left-Arm Pacer to Replace Spencer Johnson?
On November 15, KKR released left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, creating a vacancy in the squad. To fill that gap, the franchise is eyeing England’s experienced all-rounder Reece Topley. Despite occasional injury concerns, Topley’s swing, bounce, and death-overs control make him an ideal fit for the team. His skill set could bring much-needed balance to KKR’s bowling lineup.
Ahead of the mini auction, speculation is growing around these three bowlers—Matheesha Pathirana, Ravi Bishnoi, and Reece Topley. Determined to bounce back after last season’s struggles, Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla’s franchise are gearing up to rebuild a stronger, more balanced KKR squad.