Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) enter the IPL 2026 auction on December 16 with the largest purse among all teams — INR 64.3 crore — following a sweeping release of players during the retention deadline. The franchise has cut ties with long-time pillars Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer, along with six overseas players. Only Sunil Narine and Rovman Powell have been retained as the team begins a fresh chapter under a revamped coaching staff.
With two fast-bowling all-rounders gone, Cameron Green is widely expected to be KKR’s top target. Even if the Australian fetches an estimated INR 24.3 crore, KKR would still have close to INR 40 crore left — more than enough to rebuild their core. But beyond Green, the franchise must invest in players who offer immediate impact and align with the tactical direction of the new setup.
Below are three players KKR are likely to pursue in the upcoming auction.
3. Finn Allen
The absence of Finn Allen from the IPL remains surprising, given his explosive potential in T20 cricket. The New Zealand opener has played 52 T20Is, scoring 1,285 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 163.27. His 2025 numbers were even more impressive, with 144 runs in five games at a strike rate of 211.76.
KKR have traditionally valued attacking openers — Brendon McCullum, Chris Lynn, and Robin Uthappa all personified their aggressive template. More recently, Phil Salt delivered match-winning starts en route to their 2024 IPL title. Allen fits that mould perfectly and could become a long-term asset at the top of the order.
2. Jacob Duffy
With Spencer Johnson and Anrich Nortje released, KKR are in urgent need of a frontline overseas fast bowler. Jacob Duffy of New Zealand presents a strong option. His familiarity with KKR’s new bowling coach Tim Southee could further strengthen his case.
The 31-year-old has taken 53 wickets in 38 T20Is at an economy rate of 7.36, showcasing consistency and strong new-ball skills. For a team looking to rebuild its pace attack from scratch, Duffy offers both reliability and tactical flexibility.
1. Matheesha Pathirana
Perhaps the most important target for KKR will be Sri Lankan sensation Matheesha Pathirana. Released by Chennai ahead of the mini-auction, Pathirana is expected to spark intense bidding across franchises.
Known for his slingy action and exceptional death-overs control, Pathirana directly addresses one of KKR’s biggest concerns — managing the final overs, especially after Russell’s departure. He is projected to command a premium, likely in the INR 17–18 crore range, but his match-winning potential makes him a justified investment.
With an aggressive purse and a reimagined squad structure, KKR have the flexibility to build a well-balanced, high-impact roster. Strategic picks such as these — alongside their pursuit of Cameron Green — could help the franchise shape a formidable lineup for IPL 2026.
