Three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders have officially ended their association with head coach Chandrakant Pandit, the franchise confirmed on Tuesday, July 29. Pandit, who had been appointed to the role ahead of IPL 2023, led the team to their third league title in 2024. KKR became only the second franchise to win an IPL title under an Indian head coach—Pandit following in the footsteps of Ashish Nehra. Appointed in August 2022, Pandit was brought in after his historic coaching success with Madhya Pradesh, guiding them to their maiden Ranji Trophy win. He had earlier earned accolades coaching Vidarbha and Mumbai, winning multiple national titles with both teams. Known for his strict methods and regimented team culture, Pandit brought a distinct change to the KKR setup over the past three seasons. Read also: Oval Groundsman Labels Gambhir ‘Touchy Guy’, Files Complaint to ECB 2024 Triumph Followed by Exit in 2025 Season Despite delivering the championship in 2024, Kolkata failed to reach the playoffs in the following season. The decision to part ways was made public through a statement from the franchise. “Mr Chandrakant Pandit has decided to explore new opportunities and will not continue as head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders. We are thankful for his invaluable contribution—including leading KKR to the TATA IPL Championship in 2024 and helping build a strong, resilient squad. His leadership and discipline have left a lasting impact on the team. We wish him all the best for the future.” The team also posted a farewell note on social media. KKR’s message on X (formerly Twitter) reads “We wish you the best for your future endeavours, Chandu Sir." We wish you the best for your future endeavours, Chandu Sir 🤗PS: Once a Knight, always a Knight. Kolkata will always be your home 💜 pic.twitter.com/GF0LxX5fIz — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) July 29, 2025 Pandit’s tenure was marked by a no-nonsense approach. He had once famously confiscated phones from Vidarbha players during a Ranji semi-final to maintain focus. Reports of tough internal discipline have always surrounded him—some claim he even resorted to reprimanding players physically if rules were broken. Pandit represented India in five Tests and 36 ODIs between the mid-1980s and early 1990s. His next move remains unannounced.