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  • IPL 2026 : ‘Virat’ Prediction from Sunil Narine Before the Auction

    IPL 2026 : ‘Virat’ Prediction from Sunil Narine Before the Auction

    As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have started full-fledged preparations. After a disappointing performance last season, the two-time champions are determined to return to the field with renewed energy. The franchise has already taken several strategic decisions to revamp the squad, including releasing 10 players at once and saving a significant portion of the budget to be aggressive in the upcoming auction.

    নিলামের আগে ‘বিরাট’ ভবিষ্যদ্বাণী সুনীল নারিনের, কি বললেন?

     

    Amidst all this, big news has emerged. Sunil Narine, the enigmatic West Indies all-rounder who has been associated with the team for many years, has hinted that the real ‘X factor’ for KKR in the 2026 season could emerge from within the team.

    Could Umran Malik Become KKR’s Pace Weapon?

    Narine has named talented speedster Umran Malik as a potential game-changer for the team next season. In an interview with PTI, he said, “Umran Malik is an extremely thrilling bowler. On IPL’s smaller grounds and batting-friendly pitches, pace is always a major weapon. In that sense, Umran can undoubtedly become the ‘X factor’ for the Knight Riders camp.”

    KKR had acquired Umran last IPL for a base price of only ₹75 lakh, but he couldn’t feature in matches due to injury. This time, the Jammu & Kashmir pacer is returning fully fit, and hopes are high—from the coaching staff to the fans—for his impact in the upcoming season.

    Narine also mentioned that the team will certainly miss Andre Russell’s power-hitting, but Umran Malik’s pace-dependent bowling attack could fill that void. He added, “Towards the end of last season, he seemed very confident and strong. I believe he will handle the responsibility well.”

    KKR owners, including Shah Rukh Khan, and the franchise’s think tank see the possibility of building a formidable fast-bowling unit around Umran Malik over the next few years. His bowling variations, consistent high speed, and youthful energy are central to Kolkata’s plans.

    Will KKR Bring the Pace Storm Next Season?

    With multiple big decisions already in play, all eyes will be on Umran Malik’s fitness and pace consistency, as well as the emergence of new players in the auction. The 2026 season is shaping up to be a beacon of hope for Kolkata fans, with Umran Malik potentially being the biggest surprise.

     

  • IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    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!

    A Nightmare Season in 2025 Pushes KKR Towards Major Changes

    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.

  • IPL 2026 : After Retirement, Andre Russell Tops the World with a Unique T20 Record

    IPL 2026 : After Retirement, Andre Russell Tops the World with a Unique T20 Record

    In T20 cricket, the name Andre Russell is synonymous with power, aggression, and match-winning performances. The Kolkata Knight Riders’ star all-rounder retired from the IPL (IPL 2026) just six days ago. But even after announcing his retirement, his storm with bat and ball hasn’t stopped. Within a week of retiring, he has created a unique world record—one that no cricketer had ever achieved before. The West Indies all-rounder has now etched his name in a milestone previously untouched in cricket history.

    IPL থেকে অবসরের পরেই বিশ্বরেকর্ড গড়ে তালিকার শীর্ষে আন্দ্রে রাসেল

     

    First Ever to Top All Three Lists in T20 Cricket

    126 players have scored 5000 or more runs in T20 cricket.

    Only 6 bowlers have taken 500 or more wickets.

    Only 10 players have hit 500 or more sixes.

    Andre Russell is the only cricketer who appears in all three lists.

    On Friday, playing for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders against Desert Vipers in the ILT20, Russell picked up his 500th T20 wicket, creating history. He is now the first player in the world to achieve:

    5000+ runs

    500+ wickets

    500+ sixes

    in the T20 format. Historic Milestone in His 576th Match.

    After 576 T20 matches, Russell’s career numbers now stand at:

    Runs: 9,496

    Wickets: 500

    Sixes: 772

    Earlier, Shakib Al Hasan and Dwayne Bravo had achieved the double milestone of 5000 runs and 500 wickets in T20s, but neither came close to Russell’s towering six-hitting record.

    On Friday, coming in at No. 6, Russell scored 36 off 23 balls, including 3 fours and 2 sixes. However, his milestone knock wasn’t enough to secure victory. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders posted 171/6, but Desert Vipers chased it down in 19.3 overs, powered by Shimron Hetmyer’s destructive 48.

    A New Role Ahead

    After retiring from the IPL last Sunday, Russell will soon take up the role of assistant coach for KKR. However, he remains active in various franchise leagues—meaning many more milestones could still be waiting for him.

    This rare T20 triple crown cements Andre Russell not just as one of the greatest all-rounders of his era, but as one of the greatest in the entire history of the T20 format.

  • IPL 2026: Andre Russell’s New Destination? These Two Franchises in the Lead!

    IPL 2026: Andre Russell’s New Destination? These Two Franchises in the Lead!

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is reportedly making a big move ahead of IPL 2026. For the first time in 11 years, the Caribbean all-rounder Andre Russell will not be part of the KKR squad. However, the KKR management is not expressing any regret. They have clearly stated that they plan to bring in a new, talented all-rounder as a replacement for Russell.

    আন্দ্রে রাসেলের নতুন ঠিকানা কোথায়? এগিয়ে এই দুই ফ্র্যাঞ্চাইজি!

     

    This announcement has sparked excitement among fans and experts alike, as two major teams—Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)—are reportedly interested in securing such an experienced finisher at the auction.

    According to reports circulating on social media, Chennai’s Mahendra Singh Dhoni is keen to bring Russell in as a strong finisher for the team’s No. 6 spot next season. At the same time, Hyderabad is also preparing to strengthen its batting order by adding a reliable finisher at No. 6.

    “Auction time could see a sort of bidding war between the two teams for Andre Russell, as both teams currently lack a perfect finisher for the No. 6 position,” a source said.

    Netizens have already started sharing various speculations and comments online. KKR’s decision could either open up a new opportunity for Russell or trigger a clash between CSK and SRH. His new destination will soon be revealed. The auction is expected to create a storm, not just among fans, but across the entire IPL ecosystem. Let’s see where Andre Russell ends up next.

  • IPL 2026 Auction: KKR Might Target star Australian Cricketer

    IPL 2026 Auction: KKR Might Target star Australian Cricketer

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have retained the highest amount of funds among all franchises. Shah Rukh Khan’s team currently has ₹64.3 crore at their disposal. The management’s focus this time is on “spending the right amount on the right player,” learning from past mistakes such as the ₹23.75 crore spent on Venkatesh Iyer. KKR now plans to invest more cautiously and is scouting for quality players at lower prices.

    নিলামে এই তারকার জন্য দর হাঁকাতে পারে KKR!

     

    Maxwell Could Be KKR’s Target

    Last IPL season, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was part of Punjab Kings under Preeti Zinta’s ownership. However, he failed to live up to expectations due to injuries and a dip in form. As a result, Punjab Kings released him from the squad.

    According to reports from sources like Khel Now, if Maxwell remains unsold in the upcoming IPL auction, it could put his IPL and international career at risk. KKR sees this as an opportunity. The Kolkata franchise is reportedly considering bringing the experienced Aussie all-rounder into their squad at a bargain price.

    Maxwell’s IPL Career So Far

    Glenn Maxwell made his IPL debut in 2012. To date, he has played 141 matches, scoring 2,819 runs and taking 41 crucial wickets. His highest score in the league is 95. However, in the last season, he managed only 48 runs in six innings across seven matches for Punjab. Bought for ₹4.2 crore, Maxwell’s performance last year was disappointing for the PBKS management.

    This time, KKR plans to leverage Maxwell’s experience while strengthening their squad’s batting and all-round capabilities. The franchise, however, has not commented publicly on this potential move. IPL fans now eagerly wait to see who will bid for Glenn Maxwell and how KKR shapes their strategy for the upcoming season.

  • IPL 2026: To Boost Batting Strength, KKR Targets This Former Player in Auction!

    IPL 2026: To Boost Batting Strength, KKR Targets This Former Player in Auction!

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders are busy rebuilding their squad. Despite winning the 2024 championship, the franchise owned by Shah Rukh Khan has already started planning early to form an even stronger team for the next season. From appointing a new head coach to a new bowling coach, KKR has completed several major recruitments in one go. The retention list released on 15 November also created a stir, as a few familiar faces were released by the franchise.

    ব্যাটিং শক্তি বাড়াতে নিলামে এই প্রাক্তনীকে টার্গেট নাইট শিবিরের!

     

    Amid all this, reports suggest that a former Chennai Super Kings player might return to Kolkata. At the center of speculation is Indian batter Rahul Tripathi.

    Released by CSK — Is Rahul Tripathi Set to Return to KKR?

    Ahead of the 2026 auction, KKR holds the highest purse amount, and the management aims to spend it wisely by securing an experienced and reliable batsman. According to national media reports, KKR is targeting Rahul Tripathi to bring stability to the top order.

    However, Tripathi’s recent form hasn’t been impressive. For Chennai Super Kings in the last IPL, he played only 5 matches and scored just 55 runs. Yet he scored a remarkable 413 runs in 14 matches in the 2022 season—a performance that had put him back into the spotlight.

    Despite his current slump, franchises still remember his experience and explosive innings from earlier seasons. If KKR brings him back, the Indian batsman will have to repay that faith by rediscovering his old form.

    Rahul & KKR — Will the Old Partnership Return?

    Rahul Tripathi began his IPL journey in 2017, scoring 391 runs in his debut season and instantly catching attention. He later played for KKR in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, during which his partnership with Manish Pandey became quite memorable.

    This is why Tripathi’s fans are hopeful. They believe KKR might bring back the familiar face because an experienced Indian top-order batsman can be crucial to strengthening the batting lineup for the new season.

    Looking Ahead — KKR’s Plans Are Clear

    The exclusion of names like Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer from the retention list made it clear that KKR are heading for major changes. Ensuring consistency in batting is now their top priority. If Rahul Tripathi returns, he could provide both experience and aggressive batting at the top.

  • IPL 2026: KKR Targets These Two Stars After Parting Ways with Russell

    IPL 2026: KKR Targets These Two Stars After Parting Ways with Russell

    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.

  • IPL 2026: To Solve Their Opening Crisis, KKR Targeting These Four Stars!

    IPL 2026: To Solve Their Opening Crisis, KKR Targeting These Four Stars!

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, the Kolkata Knight Riders have already begun restructuring their squad. Shah Rukh Khan’s franchise is desperate to recreate the magic of the brilliant 2024 championship-winning KKR. From the head coach to assistant and bowling coaches—major changes have already been made. Now the only task left is to build a powerful squad. With that goal in mind, the Knights are searching for a sharp opener alongside a wicketkeeper.

    ওপেনার সংকট মেটাতে এই চার তারকাকে টার্গেট নাইট শিবিরের!

     

    The management has already realized that releasing Phil Salt was a mistake. Salt’s 400+ runs in 2024 had played a crucial role in pushing KKR toward the playoffs. Therefore, this time they want an opener who can change the momentum of the match right in the powerplay alongside Ajinkya Rahane. Sources say KKR will keep a close eye on four well-known names at the auction.

    1. Devon Conway – New Zealand Star Opener

    This Kiwi batter has been released by the Chennai Super Kings. Although he scored only 94 runs in four matches in the 2025 season, there is no doubt about his class and experience. As a left-handed opener, Conway is extremely composed in the powerplay. There is strong speculation that KKR will try hard to get him.

    2. Tom Banton – England’s Aggressive Batter

    The experienced T20 batter Tom Banton has played 193 matches and scored nearly 4,700 runs. His destructive ability against spin makes him highly appealing. On the Eden Gardens pitch—where spin plays a major role—Banton could be a valuable asset.

    3. Rachin Ravindra – The Young Indo-Kiwi Sensation

    Ever since being released by Chennai, interest in Rachin has been growing among multiple franchises. KKR is considering using him as an opener. His explosive starts and all-round abilities could add a new dimension to the team’s combination.

    4. Prithvi Shaw – A Comeback for the Overlooked Talent?

    Currently ignored in the Indian team, but his talent still shines bright. Known for his fierce powerplay batting, Prithvi Shaw might be available at a relatively lower price. KKR’s management is expected to keep an eye on him for his Chris Lynn-like aggression and quick run-scoring ability.

  • IPL 2026: KKR Targets 3 Star Wicketkeepers!

    IPL 2026: KKR Targets 3 Star Wicketkeepers!

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have begun reshaping their squad with a fresh approach. After struggling with consistency and team balance over the past few seasons, Shah Rukh Khan’s franchise has taken some bold decisions — the biggest being the sudden release of 10 players in one go.

    KKR নজরে এই ৩ তারকা উইকেটকিপার! IPL নিলাম ঘিরে তুঙ্গে উত্তেজনা

     

    Surprisingly, KKR have also released all three of their wicketkeeper-batters: Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Luvnith Sisodia.

    As a result, the wicketkeeping department now has a major vacancy. Therefore, the franchise is expected to focus heavily on foreign wicketkeepers in the upcoming auction. A recent report from Sportskeeda claims that KKR have already shortlisted three international wicketkeeper-batters.

    On 15 November, the cricket world was shocked as KKR ended their 11-year association with Andre Russell — one of the most talked-about decisions in the franchise’s history. Along with Russell, KKR also released Venkatesh Iyer (₹23.75 crore) and several other well-known names. With these departures, KKR now has a huge purse of ₹64.3 crore, giving them strong advantage at the auction table.

    1. Jonny Bairstow (England) – KKR’s Primary Target

    According to reports, Jonny Bairstow is the first-choice target for KKR as they look to strengthen their wicketkeeping lineup.

    Why Bairstow?

    Explosive opening batter

    Vast T20 experience

    World-class wicketkeeper

    Ability to win matches single-handedly

    KKR are reportedly ready to spend big on Bairstow if a bidding war breaks out.

    2. Jamie Smith (England)

    England’s rising star Jamie Smith is seen by the KKR management as a long-term investment. His impressive batting ability and lightning-fast glovework make him one of the most exciting young options in the auction.

    3. Shai Hope (West Indies)

    West Indies’ dependable batter Shai Hope brings technique, composure, and experience — qualities that could add depth to KKR’s T20 lineup. His presence might also inspire the younger batters in the squad.

  • IPL 2026: Surprise Captaincy Change! Strong Buzz Inside KKR Camp

    IPL 2026: Surprise Captaincy Change! Strong Buzz Inside KKR Camp

    Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders’ failure-filled last season seems to have triggered the beginning of a new chapter. Learning from their setbacks, Shah Rukh Khan–led management has made sweeping changes across the entire setup. From head coach to bowling coach, several new faces have joined the franchise. But the biggest surprise has come from their retention list.

    আচমকাই নেতৃত্বে আসতে পারেন এই ক্রিকেটার! নাইট শিবিরে শুরু জোর জল্পনা
     

    Caribbean superstar Andre Russell, who had been with KKR for 11 long years, has been released. The same fate has met Venkatesh Iyer, who was worth ₹23.75 crore. On the other hand, experienced Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane has been retained. However, whether he will be the captain is still a major question.

    According to sources inside the team, the management is not yet convinced about making Rahane the captain. If no major star player arrives from the auction, the captaincy responsibility may go to West Indies all-rounder Sunil Narine.

    Last season, Narine stepped in as captain a few times when Rahane was unavailable. Not only did he handle the responsibility well, but he also performed brilliantly with both bat and ball whenever he led the side. Having been with KKR for a long time, Narine knows the team’s “DNA” inside-out. Many believe that in the current scenario, there is no one more suitable than him to take over the leadership.

    What strengthens this possibility even more is Shah Rukh Khan’s special trust in Narine. So, if Sunil Narine is announced as KKR’s new captain before IPL 2026 begins, it wouldn’t be surprising.

    On November 15, KKR released a total of 10 players, including Venkatesh Iyer and Andre Russell. The franchise now has ₹64.3 crore remaining in their purse. With this, Shah Rukh Khan’s team is ready to make a big impact at the upcoming auction. Intense discussions are underway within the camp about which players to target and who fits into the team’s long-term plans. But amid all this, the biggest talking point remains—who will be the new captain of Kolkata Knight Riders?