With the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) approaching, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) management is preparing for a major strategic shift. The team has parted ways with Caribbean star Andre Russell, who was retained for ₹12 crore. This time, the franchise is reportedly looking to target not just one, but possibly two foreign all-rounders in the auction as his replacement.
রাসলেকে বিদায় জানিয়ে এই দুই তারকাকে টার্গেট শাহরুখের দলের!
For the first time in its 11-year history, KKR has dropped the former West Indies all-rounder from the squad. Earlier, there were rumors that the franchise might bring Russell back at a lower price in the auction, but now the team seems unwilling to take that risk. As three-time defending champions, they appear focused on a fresh approach, making Russell’s return unlikely at this stage.
According to sources, KKR’s attention is now on two key foreign all-rounders. The first is England’s Liam Livingstone, recently left out of the retention list by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Livingstone is known in the IPL as a highly influential all-rounder across opposing teams.
The second target is Australian star Glenn Maxwell, recently released by Punjab Kings. KKR believes that acquiring either Maxwell or Livingstone at a relatively lower auction price could strengthen the team’s balance and overall power.
Although it is not guaranteed that both players will join the squad, sources indicate that KKR will likely try to secure at least one of them. If successful, the move would enhance the team’s all-round capabilities, making the side more versatile and formidable. KKR management has not made any official comments on this plan yet, but cricket circles speculate that it could bring a new dimension to the Kolkata squad.