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Three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson as their Assistant coach ahead of the upcoming edition of the league in 2026. KKR announced Watson’s appointment as coach via their social media post on Thursday, November 13.
Before joining KKR, Shane Watson served as a mentor of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2022. Now, he is returning in the IPL after almost four years as he will be seen in a role of an assistant coach of KKR along with new Head Coach Abhishek Nayar for IPL 2026. “We are thrilled to welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family. His experience as a player and coach at the highest level will add immense value to our team culture and preparation. His understanding of the T20 format is world-class, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field, Managing Director Venky Mysore said in a statement released by KKR.
Great honour to be a part of iconic franchise: Shane Watson
Shane Watson has great stats as a player in the Indian Premier League where he scored 3874 runs with bat and took 92 wickets with ball from 145 matches in his career in the cash-rich league from 2008 to 2020. He has played for teams like Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings, winning two titles with RR and CSK in 2008 and 2018 respectively. The former cricketer was also thrilled to join KKR ahead of IPL 2026.
“It’s a great honour to be part of a franchise as iconic as Kolkata Knight Riders. I’ve always admired the passion of KKR fans and the team’s commitment to excellence. I’m eager to work closely with the coaching group and players to help bring another title to Kolkata,” Watson said.
