3 All-Rounders KKR Must Target Before IPL 2026 Mini-Auction

Sanjay Sen

Kolkata Knight Riders' All-rounders in IPL 2025 [Source: @JV_YDV/X]Kolkata Knight Riders' All-rounders in IPL 2025 [Source: @JV_YDV/X]

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face a pivotal moment as they prepare for the 2026 IPL auction, aiming to reshape their squad after a lacklustre 2025 season. With only 5 wins, 7 losses, and 2 draws, failing to reach the playoffs, KKR’s management is poised to make bold moves.

Mainly KKR's all-rounder department failed in IPL 2025 due to a lack of consistent contributions from Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Moeen Ali. The absence of consistent all-round performances from the veteran core significantly impacted the team's overall success, contributing to their failure to qualify for the playoffs. 

All‑Rounder Department: Depth, Availability & Underperformance

Squad Composition & Auction Strategy:

  • KKR retained a core all-rounder unit—Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, and uncapped Ramandeep Singh—while splurging on Venkatesh Iyer at a staggering ₹23.75 crore in the mega auction.
  • Although these names suggested depth and experience, KKR lacked pace‑bowling backups, missing big names like Phil Salt and Mitchell Starc from the previous season.

Impact of Absences & Opt-Outs: 

  • Veteran Moeen Ali opted out mid-season for personal reasons, leaving a void in the spinning all‑rounder slot. Rovman Powell also remained sidelined due to injury concerns, further thinning the options.

Underwhelming Contributions:

  • Andre Russell, typically a match-winner, was underutilised—batting too low in the order and rarely given opportunities to influence the match. Despite his power-hitting and handy pace, Russell managed only 8 wickets and 167 runs in 12 matches.
  • Sunil Narine remained economical with the ball but offered far less with the bat compared to earlier campaigns.
  • Venkatesh Iyer, despite the hefty price tag, flopped with the bat—scoring just 129–142 runs across 8–11 matches at mediocre strike rates and a solitary fifty.
  • Ramandeep Singh, with just 34 runs in 6 matches at an average of 8.50, failed to solidify the middle order, marking him as a likely release.

3 Potential Signings to Replace Released All-rounders

Here are three all‑rounders KKR should strongly consider targeting ahead of the IPL 2026 mini‑auction, based on recent reports and strategic fit:

1. Cameron Green (Australia)

Cameron Green [Source: @ABDszn17/X]Cameron Green [Source: @ABDszn17/X]

Recent Form

  • Cameron Green’s return has been nothing short of impressive. From a commanding county comeback to an ODI century and key contributions in T20Is, he's proving his mettle across formats. His inclusion in Australia’s WTC Final squad signals trust in his all-round capabilities as he regains full fitness and confidence.

Why he fits KKR?

  • A dynamic all‑rounder capable of batting in the top‑5 and delivering a full bowling quota with pace—brilliantly fitting KKR’s need for a genuine match‑winner.

2. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)

Recent Form

  • Daryl Mitchell continues to demonstrate his value as a clutch performer across formats. From providing stability in high-stakes ODI finals and showcasing calm in nail-biting T20 finishes, to contributing solidly in Tests, his versatility remains a key asset for New Zealand and franchise teams alike.

Why he fits KKR?

  • A dependable middle‑order batter and handy medium‑pace bowler; offers solidity alongside batting depth. He has been specifically listed among KKR’s target all‑rounders in pre‑auction analyses.

3. Jason Holder (West Indies)

Recent Form

  • Jason Holder continues to demonstrate his enduring value as a premier all-rounder. Whether pulling off thrilling finishes in international T20s or delivering consistent performances in franchise cricket, he remains a pivotal figure for his teams. His leadership role with the Los Angeles Knight Riders further underscores his importance in the evolving T20 landscape.
  • Holder currently ranks #21 among T20 all-rounders and #9 in Test all-rounder standings, reflecting his standing in global cricket.

Why he fits KKR?

  • A strong West Indian all‑rounder—ideal for balancing your squad. Offers batting depth at different positions in the lineup and medium-fast bowling, which KKR could use to round out their lineup.

By cleaning the roster of under performers and overspending all-rounders, KKR aims to rebuild with a more balanced and potent mix of players for their IPL 2026 journey.