Kolkata Knight Riders are entering the IPL 2026 mini-auction poised for a complete overhaul, armed with an unprecedented INR 64.30 crore, the largest available purse among all franchises. Their disappointing 8th-place finish in IPL 2025, coupled with major releases including Andre Russell signals a determined shift in strategy. Under new head coach Abhishek Nayar, the focus will be on squarely on filling the massive structural combination and they are expected to make some big purchases to fill the core of the side.
1.Cameron Green
The Australian all-rounder is one of the main attraction going into the auction. Many teams are eyeing him and he is set to go for a big price. He is an explosive batter and has a high-strike-rate(IPL SR over 153) with can bowl some quality overs of medium pace. His acquisition instantly transforms KKR’s structural balance, providing a stable, multi-utility pillar who can bat high up the order or finish innings. KKR are prepared to set the overseas ceiling price (around ₹18 crore) to secure Green, solving their most crucial high-impact vacancy that was previously filled by Andre Russell.
2.Anrich Nortje
Anrich Nortje has been out of action majorly due to injury but he made a comeback in the recent CSA T20 competition where he bowled with good pace. The South African speedster was retained for a substantial sum in the past, reflecting his status as an elite foreign quick. While Nortje has faced fitness concerns, his ability to clock speeds over 150 km/h and disrupt opposition momentum is unmatched. Reacquiring him secures a world-class strike bowler who can mentor the young Indian fast bowlers and provide a vital wicket-taking option, should KKR choose to partner him with Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora.
3. Kartik Sharma
Kartik Sharma is an uncapped 20-year-old and former DC player and is widely tipped by many to be the highest-paid uncapped player in the upcoming auction. Kartik Sharma is praised for his fearless, power-hitting ability (T20 SR over 162), making him a potential middle-order finisher alongside Rinku Singh. Securing this highly-rated domestic talent not only solves the crucial Indian keeper vacancy but also strengthens their death-overs batting firepower at a low base price. He can also be used as a floater and provides them with an Indian wicket-keeping option.
