Kolkata Knight Riders Full Squad for IPL 2026: Strengths, Weaknesses and Balance
The IPL 2026 mini-auction, held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, concluded with all 77 listed players finding franchises. Kolkata Knight Riders Full Squad for IPL 2026 came together as KKR entered the auction as the biggest spenders, aiming to strengthen their top order and spin-bowling options while maintaining a strong overseas core.
The franchise signed nine players at the mini-auction, with Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer emerging as their most expensive buy at ₹8.0 crore. West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph followed as KKR’s second costliest acquisition at ₹3.0 crore.
Kolkata Knight Riders’ Key Buys at IPL 2026 Mini Auction
KKR focused on all-rounders, spinners, and pace bowlers to reinforce the squad:
- Venkatesh Iyer – ₹8.0 crore
- Alzarri Joseph – ₹3.0 crore
- Sunil Narine – ₹2.5 crore
- Shubman Gill – ₹2.0 crore
- Andre Russell – ₹90 lakh
- Anukul Roy – ₹75 lakh
- Nitish Rana – ₹50 lakh
- Varun Chakaravarthy – ₹40 lakh
- Rinku Singh – ₹30 lakh
With Venkatesh Iyer commanding the highest bid, he is expected to anchor KKR’s middle order and contribute with the ball. Alzarri Joseph strengthens the pace attack, while Sunil Narine provides spin and all-round balance.
Likely Batting Order for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026
At the top, Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh are expected to open, providing aggression and consistency. The middle order will feature Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, and Andre Russell, with Andre Russell also contributing as a finisher. Shubman Gill is expected to continue as captain.
Bowling Attack and Overseas Combination
KKR’s bowling unit combines pace and spin. Alzarri Joseph, Andre Russell, and Anukul Roy lead the pace attack, while Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy provide spin support. Overseas balance will depend on pitch conditions and team combination.
KKR Full Squad for IPL 2026
Kolkata Knight Riders Squad:
Shubman Gill (C), Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Alzarri Joseph, Anukul Roy, Varun Chakaravarthy.
What to Expect from Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026
KKR have focused on strengthening their middle order, spin options, and pace attack. With experienced Indian batters and versatile overseas resources, KKR are well-prepared to adapt to varied conditions and remain strong contenders.
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FAQs
Q1. Who was Kolkata Knight Riders’ most expensive buy in IPL 2026 mini-auction?
- Venkatesh Iyer was KKR’s most expensive buy at ₹8.0 crore.
Q2. How many players did Kolkata Knight Riders buy in IPL 2026 mini-auction?
- KKR bought nine players at the mini-auction.
Q3. Who will captain Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026?
- Shubman Gill is expected to continue as KKR captain.
Q4. Will Alzarri Joseph play in KKR’s XI?
- His inclusion strengthens the pace attack depending on team combination.
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