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Kolkata Knight Riders has gained immense popularity among fans due to its impressive performances over the years and its association with celebrity owners. They qualified for the IPL playoffs for the first time in 2011. KKR became the IPL champions in 2012 by defeating Chennai Super Kings in the final. They repeated the feat in 2014, defeating Kings XI Punjab. The Knight Riders hold the record for the longest winning streak by any Indian team in the T20s. KKR decided to retain Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer and Varun Chakravarthy. They have fared well in the IPL 2022 mega auction. Now, let's have a look at what will be their playing XI for IPL 2022.
Openers: Venkatesh Iyer and Alex Hales
KKR have found a gem in the form of Venkatesh Iyer in the second half of IPL 2021. Iyer managed to score 370 runs in 10 games at an average of 41.11 and strike rate of 128.47. The 26-year-old also smashed four half-centuries for Knight Riders (KKR). Alongside him, Alex Hales will be the best choice as he can guide Venkatesh Iyer with his experience and make sure that he does not lose his wicket and build the innings.
Middle-order: Shreyas Iyer (c), Nitish Rana and Sheldon Jackson (wk)
This middle-order trio might not look as destructive compared to other teams, but they can form partnerships after losing wickets in the early stages of the match. Shreyas Iyer was bought by KKR for 12.25 crores and will be leading the team. He is in great form and coming on the back of a brilliant T20 series against Sri Lanka.
Nitish Rana can play big shots and provide a steady hand to the other set batsman. He has played this role for KKR before as well and will continue to do the same. Sheldon Jackson could be seen donning the gloves. He has played a lot of domestic cricket and played an essential role in the team. His role would be to not worry about his wicket and go for the big shots as he will be followed by the mighty West Indies all-rounders.
All-rounders: Andre Russell, Sunil Narine
These two men from the Windies will only swing their bat to every ball. Their power is a huge matter of concern for the opposing teams. They will also play a key part in the bowling department. The duo will have a huge responsibilty on their shoulders as they will be required to finish the games for their side.
Bowlers: Pat Cummins, Umesh Yadav, Shivam Mavi and Varun Chakravarthy
Pat Cummins will be the leading pacer for the team. His job will be to start and end the innings on a perfect note. Alongside him will be the duo of Umesh Yadav and Shivam Mavi, who will play the supporting role. Varun Chakravarthy is the critical spinner for KKR, and having retained him; he is a player who KKR backs to perform well. He will be controlling the middle overs alongside Sunil Narine, and they will to not concede many runs and get the set batsman out.