After a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) find themselves at a crucial crossroads ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction. A season that ended with just five wins and an eighth-place finish on the table has prompted serious introspection within the team management and significant changes may be on the horizon.
One of the most pressing concerns for the franchise is the leadership setup. Veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who took over the captaincy last season, failed to make a significant impact both tactically and in terms of results. While Rahane’s batting numbers – 390 runs from 13 innings at an average of 35 and a strike rate of 147 – were respectable, the team’s overall performance under his leadership left much to be desired.
Rinku Singh Emerging as a Captaincy Contender
With Rahane’s future as captain uncertain, the focus has quietly shifted toward Rinku Singh – a long-serving member of the KKR setup and one of the few bright sparks in a dim campaign. Sources close to the franchise suggest that Rinku is being seriously considered as a leadership option, potentially heralding a new era for the two-time IPL champions.
Rinku has grown into a reliable middle-order presence and carries the backing of fans and several senior figures within the franchise. His temperament, work ethic, and loyalty to the team make him a strong candidate to take over the reins.
Venkatesh Iyer’s Role in Doubt Ahead of Auction
Another big question mark looms over Venkatesh Iyer, who was one of KKR’s marquee retentions ahead of IPL 2025, picked up for a staggering Rs 23.75 crore. Iyer was appointed vice-captain but had a season to forget, contributing just 142 runs in 11 matches at an average of 20. Although he scored a solitary fifty, he struggled for consistency and wasn’t utilized at all with the ball – once considered a key part of his value as an all-rounder.
With Iyer no longer offering the all-round package and his batting form dipping, whispers are growing louder within the cricketing circles that KKR may reconsider his place in the squad altogether, especially with such a large chunk of the budget tied to his contract.
Change is Coming
As the IPL 2026 Auction approaches, all signs point to a potential reset for the Knight Riders. The franchise is expected to go in with a fresh approach – possibly with a new captain, a reshuffled leadership core, and a more balanced squad built around younger, in-form talent.
With other teams also preparing to shake things up in what could be one of the most competitive mini-auctions in recent memory, KKR’s moves, particularly regarding Rahane, Iyer, and Rinku – will be closely watched.
For the men in purple and gold, 2026 could mark the beginning of a new chapter – one they desperately need after the disappointment of 2025.
