After a rough IPL 2025 season, KKR is ready to wipe the slate clean they have decided to part ways with some of their underperforming players just in time for the IPL auction 2026. With the event right around the corner, Kolkata has some serious shopping to do. One of the biggest surprises for them is that all-rounder Andre Russell won’t be available, which is sure to add to their challenges. But hey, it’s a good kind of challenge to have! KKR boasts the largest budget heading into the IPL auction, giving them the leverage to target players that might be out of reach for other teams. So, let’s dive into KKR's game plan for the IPL auction 2026. With the highest remaining budget among all teams, KKR has the opportunity to add up to 9 new players to their roster. A key priority for them is to find an experienced wicketkeeper who could potentially open the batting. They’re also on the lookout for some solid Indian batsmen. While their bowling lineup seems to be in good shape for now, with the funds they have, they should definitely aim for some upgrades. In fact, they can afford to splurge a bit and still have enough left over to feel secure. As the Kolkata Knight Riders gear up for the IPL 2026 auction, their strategy appears well thought out and balanced. Cameron Green seems like a strong candidate for KKR, as they’re eager to secure a dependable overseas all-rounder who can make an impact with both bat and ball. Read also: When was the first ever cricket match televised? If Green isn’t available, they might also consider options like Wiaan Mulder and Beau Webster. For the overseas opener and wicketkeeper position, Quinton de Kock is firmly on KKR’s radar, with Josh Inglis and Kusal Mendis as potential alternatives. In the spin all-rounder category, names like Wanindu Hasaranga, Liam Livingstone, and Rachin Ravindra are definitely worth noting, while Indian talents like Tanush Kotian and Mahipal Lomror could add valuable depth. KKR might also look to bolster their pace attack by bringing in overseas quicks like Jason Holder, Mustafizur Rahman, or Alzarri Joseph. KKR’s Retained Players for IPL 2026 Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Rovman Powell, Sunil Narine, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy. KKR’s Released Players for IPL 2026 Luvnith Sisodia, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Spencer Johnson, Anrich Nortje, Chetan Sakariya.