Gurbaz's IPL Release Likely; KKR's Overseas Replacement Choices Before 2026 Season

Debashis Sarangi

Bairstow could be a good option to replace Gurbaz at KKR [Source: AFP]Bairstow could be a good option to replace Gurbaz at KKR [Source: AFP]

Rahmanullah Gurbaz's middling returns was one of the major reasons why Afghanistan suffered an embarrassing group-stage exit from the Asia Cup 2025. Gurbaz, one of Afghanistan's most experienced players, managed only 57 runs across three innings at a mediocre average of 19 and a strike rate of 129.55. 

Gurbaz's recent form and IPL failure could lead to his release from KKR

More importantly, Rahmanullah Gurbaz hasn't had a great time with the bat in recent times. The swashbuckling right-hander has managed only 155 runs at an average of 19.38. He hasn't proved his mettle for Kolkata Knight Riders either, aggregating 363 runs at an average of 21.35 and a strike rate of 134.94. 

He was one of the major disappointments for KKR in the IPL 2025, scoring 74 runs across five innings. So, given that he hasn't performed for them and is struggling with poor form, KKR might decide to release Gurbaz to the mini auction pool. 

In such a scenario, the three-time IPL champions can consider roping in one of these three keeper-batters for the 2026 season. 

Jonny Bairstow

Why is Bairstow a good option for KKR as Gurbaz's replacement?

Criterion
Data
Innings8
Runs248
Average35.42
SR156.96

(Bairstow's stats in The Hundred 2025)

  • England's veteran batter Jonny Bairstow went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction before Mumbai Indians signed him as a replacement for Ryan Rickelton. However, the five-time champions can't retain the Englishman, as he came in as a temporary replacement, particularly for the 2025 season. 
  • Bairstow showcased his extraordinary hitting skills in MI colours, scoring 85 runs in two innings at a blistering strike rate of 184.78. He is vastly experienced, having played 52 IPL games, in which he has smashed 1674 runs at a strike rate of 146.07. 
  • Unlike Gurbaz, Bairstow is on a rise, having slammed 248 runs at an average of 35.42 and a strike rate of 156.96 in The Hundred 2025. So, Bairstow's experience and excellent numbers make him an upgrade over Gurbaz and KKR can definitely get him in the mini auction. 

Tim Seifert

Why is Tim Seifert a good option for KKR as Gurbaz's replacement?

  • Just like Bairstow, Tim Seifert was initially among the unsold players in the mega auction. However, Royal Challengers Bengaluru picked him as a temporary replacement, with Jacob Bethell leaving the camp for national duties. 
  • Tim Seifert has been a proven performer for New Zealand in T20Is, amassing 1736 runs at a healthy average of 29.4 and a strike rate of 142.3. He is one of the most experienced keeper-batters going around and has played 264 T20s, scoring 6527 runs in the format. 
  • His ability to take risks and capitalise on the field restrictions make him an asset worth considering for KKR. Additionally, his budget will likely be less than Bairstow and KKR can grab the opportunity of securing his services while simultaneously avoiding spending a lump sum amount. 

Finn Allen

Why is Finn Allen a good option for KKR as Gurbaz's replacement?

Criterion
Data
Innings159
Runs4415
Average28.85
SR173.81

(Allen's numbers in the shortest format)

  • Finn Allen is one of the most fearless strikers in international cricket. The explosive New Zealand batter has featured in 52 T20Is, scoring 1285 runs at a superb strike rate of 163.3. 
  • He can take the advantage of Eden Gardens' batting-friendly track and short boundaries and ensure explosive starts for KKR in their home matches. Allen is one of those players who believes in tormenting the opposition by taking on them from ball one. So, if KKR want to replace Gurbaz with a more aggressive batter, Allen could be one of the hot prospects for the role.