Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) endured a mediocre run at the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With the season coming to an end, there are now debates on KKR released players ahead of IPL 2027. The Knight Riders had a disastrous start with no wins in six games (one washout), but made a turnaround by winning six of their next eight fixtures. However, they could not qualify for the playoffs for the second time in a row, since becoming the champions in 2024. Let’s take a look at the players who failed to punch above their weight and might face the axe from the team management.

List of Players KKR Can Release Ahead of IPL 2027

Ajinkya Rahane

Captain Ajinkya Rahane could be one of the key departures from the KKR squad, who failed to return with strong performances. Rahane assumed the leadership duties from the 2025 season, when the side were the defending champions.

 

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Rahane had a productive 2025 season, where he led from the front with the bat as well. He provided solid starts to the side, as they were able to secure momentum in the powerplay. The right-hander garnered 390 runs at an average of 35.45 and a strike rate of 147.72, with three fifties. However, the side performed badly, and finished eighth with five victories in 14 appearances.

Ajinkya Rahane’s Batting Stats in IPL 2026

The team management bestowed trust on Rahane for the 2026 season as well. But, KKR could not open their account in the first six games, and they were not expected to bounce back in the latter half of the season. In a major twist, Rahane’s captaincy found some luck going in its favor and improved performances from their players. Although, KKR had an impressive second half, Rahane was inconsistent and could not convert his starts into big scores. He finished the season with 335 runs at an average of 25.76 and a strike rate of 135.08, with two fifties.

 

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The dip in his performances and the team yet again failing to cross the playoff hurdle could result in Rahane’s departure from the squad. As he will be nearing 39 in the next edition, the franchise could be looking to groom a future leader in place of him. The likes of Cameron Green and Rinku Singh could be looked upon as the potential leaders.

Matheesha Pathirana

The Sri Lankan pacer, Matheesha Pathirana is likely to be one of the KKR released players ahead of IPL 2027. The franchise shelled out INR 18 crore to secure his services, but an injury concern affected his entire season. Due to a calf muscle strain, Pathirana was ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup in February. His injury recovery took over two months, as he joined the KKR squad in mid-April. He warmed the bench until KKR’s 12th game against the Gujarat Titans in May.

Deepak Chahar’s Bowling Stats in IPL 2026

Pathirana’s KKR debut lasted only eight balls, as he left the field after some discomfort to his hamstring. He was soon ruled out of the tournament, bringing his 2026 campaign to an end. With Mustafizur Rahman likely linking up with KKR in the next edition, Matheesha Pathirana could be shown the door due to his hefty price tag. Moreover, he has had fitness issues in the past seasons as well.

Vaibhav Arora

Although, Vaibhav Arora played the majority of the games (11) for KKR this season, he failed to secure wickets in the death overs. In fact, he fumbled under pressure and gave away extras in pursuit of bowling widish yorkers. He picked up 11 wickets and leaked runs at an economy of 10.26.

Vaibhav Arora’s Bowling Stats in IPL 2026

With Akash Deep and Harshit Rana likely to be the key fast bowling options in 2027 and Kartik Tyagi impressing with his pace and accuracy, Arora might not find a place in the XI next season. As a result of the disappointing performances, he faces the risk of getting released by the franchise.

Ramandeep Singh

With all-round abilities and being a gun fielder, Ramandeep was rated highly a few years back. However, the lack of consistent opportunities in the middle-order has affected his morale and performances.

Ramandeep Singh’s Batting Stats in IPL 2026

During his time with KKR since 2024, Ramandeep has not been trusted to come up the order and increase the team’s run rate. Instead, he has batted at No. 7/8 on most occasions, which has not helped his cause of getting enough time to contribute to the side. In 2026, the right-hander scored 82 runs in six innings at an average of 16.40. He bowled less than three overs, while picking up a solitary wicket. With many all-rounders in the side, Ramandeep’s services are not likely needed by the KKR side.

Navdeep Saini

Navdeep Saini served as an injury replacement for Harshit Rana in IPL 2026. Throughout the season, the veteran pacer got an opportunity to deliver three overs, where he gave away 37 runs.

Navdeep Saini’s Bowling Stats in IPL 2026

After the rise of Kartik Tyagi and the presence of other key pacers, Saini could be one of the KKR released players ahead of IPL 2027. It’s worth noting that he was unsold in the IPL 2026 auction, and was selected in the KKR trials.