Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday released their list of retained players ahead of the TATA IPL 2026 Auction, opting to continue with a core group that blends seasoned performers with emerging talent. The three-time IPL champions have retained senior players Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey and Sunil Narine, along with key contributors Varun Chakaravarthy, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana and Angkrish Raghuvanshi.
𝐏𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐄 ✨💜 pic.twitter.com/HDpkX91fqg
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 15, 2025
The franchise said the retention strategy “reflects its long-term philosophy of nurturing talented youngsters while relying on proven match-winners to anchor the group”. KKR’s retained squad includes a mix of Indian and overseas players who have contributed consistently in recent seasons.
Retained. Reloaded. Ready 😎🔥 pic.twitter.com/LLRdN7cnk7
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 15, 2025
The IPL 2026 auction is scheduled to be held on December 16 at Abu Dhabi.
From Eden to the world: Your 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 Knights for 2026 😍💜 pic.twitter.com/xL4ClNltUF
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) November 15, 2025
KKR enter the auction with Rs 64.3 crore remaining in their purse and 13 available squad slots, including six overseas spots.
Retained players: Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Rovman Powell, Sunil Narine, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy.
Available slots: 13 (including six overseas).
Available purse: Rs 64.3 crore.
