The journey of the last champion of IPL 2025 Kolkata Knight Riders was disappointing this season. On Saturday, the team was ruled out of the playoffs after a canceled match against Royal Challengers Bangalore due to rain. With this result, Kolkata Knight Riders became the fourth team of this season which could not reach the knockout stage.
The team, led by captain Ajinkya Rahane, looked unbalanced to the entire season and failed to repeat the last year’s performance. Kolkata Knight Riders may take some big decisions and release big players before the next season.
Kolkata Knight Riders can release these 5 players
Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer was included in the team by paying huge amount by KKR, but he performed very poorly this season. Only 142 runs in 11 matches and average 20.28 – Such a weak performance with such expensive players is harmful for any franchise. Also, Iyer did not bowl a single over this season. In such a situation, it will be beneficial for KKR to release them.
Quinton de Cock
South African veteran wicketkeeper batsman Quinton de Kock scored an unbeaten 97 -run innings this season, but apart from that he continued to fail. Kolkata Knight Riders already have talented keeper like Rahmanullah Gurbaz, so the team can try an Indian wicketkeeper option by releasing D Cock.
Rinku Singh
Rinku Singh was retained by KKR for Rs 13 crore. However, this season he could not retain the image of his finisher and could only score only 197 runs in 10 innings. He either could not make a place in the top order or he got so little balls that he could not give up the effect. In such a situation, KKR can consider releasing them.
Moin Ali
England all -rounder Moin Ali took 6 wickets in 6 matches, but his use was limited. He neither got a chance in every match nor was given any big role in batting. If KKR wants, he can release them and bring a specialist spinner to the team, whose lack of this season was reduced.
Rovman pole
Caribbean power hitter Rowman Powell was bought by KKR for Rs 1.5 crore but he got only two matches. In the presence of Andre Russell, Powell is difficult to get a chance to play regularly. In such a situation, Powell can be given an opportunity to make a new beginning with another franchise by releasing him.
