R Ashwin on Rahane (Source: AFP)
Contrary to popular belief, former Indian spinner R Ashwin belives, Ajinkya Rahane could turn the fortunes for KKR in IPL 2026. Apart from this, R Ashwin has dwelled on Cameron Green's batting position for Kolkata Knight Riders post IPL 2026 auction purchase.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin praised KKR’s smart planning and bold buys at the IPL 2026 mini-auction held on Tuesday.
R Ashwin praises KKR’s bold auction moves
KKR made headlines early in the auction by spending a record INR 25.2 crores to sign Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. They followed it up with another big purchase to acquire Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana for Rs 18 crore.
Ashwin was impressed not just by the big names, but also by KKR's value buys. The franchise picked up New Zealand players Tim Seifert, Rachin Ravindra and Finn Allen at their base prices. They also strengthened their Indian bowling options by signing Akash Deep and Kartik Tyagi, again at base price.
He also praised Rajasthan Royals, calling their auction strategy outstanding after they secured Ravi Bishnoi for Rs 7 crore.
“KKR have a terrific side, I don’t know whether Ajinkya will lead. But if he leads that side with composure, that is one side to reckon with. Another team is the Rajasthan Royals. After doing such big trades, you come into the auction and bag Ravi Bishnoi for 7 crore," Ashwin said while speaking on his YouTube channel.
R Ashwin deliberates on Cameron Green's batting position for KKR
It is important to note that Ashwin also shared his thoughts on KKR’s possible batting order, suggesting that Cameron Green could open the innings, while Rahane might open or bat at No.3.
"KKR didn't run after Venkatesh Iyer, so I think that Cameron Green will open the batting, while Rahane might either open or bat at No.3," Ashwin said.
According to R Ashwin, the biggest challenge for KKR will be managing Matheesha Pathirana and bringing him back to his best form.
“The biggest challenge for KKR is how they can bring Pathirana back to his best. If they can manage to squeeze in Pathirana’s overs with the mystery spinners, how will opponents score? KKR are one hell of a team," Ashwin added.
Overall, Ashwin believes teams like KKR, RR and Mumbai Indians have positioned themselves well ahead of IPL 2026, with KKR standing out as a potential title contender if leadership and execution fall into place.

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