The complete picture regarding the race for the playoffs in IPL 2026 has now become clear. While this season proved to be nothing short of a miracle for several teams, it turned out to be extremely disappointing for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The KKR squad appeared to struggle throughout the entire tournament. In their initial matches, KKR suffered a series of consecutive defeats. Consequently, the team fell significantly behind in the playoff race right from the very beginning.
KKR's final match was against the Delhi Capitals. In this encounter, Ajinkya Rahane scored a half-century; however, despite this effort, the team suffered a 40-run defeat. With this result, KKR's campaign concluded in seventh place with 13 points. Now, ahead of the upcoming season, the team management appears poised to implement major changes. As a result, the threat of being dropped from the squad looms over several players. Let's take a look at five players who are at the highest risk of being released by the team.
1. Manish Pandey
KKR had high expectations from experienced batsman Manish Pandey, but his bat remained largely silent throughout the entire season. Although he scored 25 runs in the final match against Delhi, his slow batting could prove to be a major reason for his exclusion from the team ahead of the next season. Now, with an eye on the future, the franchise intends to give an opportunity to a young Indian batsman. Consequently, Manish Pandey's name may feature in the list of players to be released by the team.
2. Anukul Roy
All-rounder Anukul Roy was utilized by KKR this season as an 'Impact Player' or a 'bowling all-rounder,' but he failed to prove his worth. His performance—in both bowling and batting—was extremely disappointing. The team expected him to score quick runs in the lower order, but he was unable to live up to those expectations in this role.
3. Rovman Powell
Rovman Powell, known for his explosive innings, was brought into the KKR squad to fulfill the role of a 'finisher.' The team had high expectations that he would score runs rapidly, much like Andre Russell; however, Powell proved to be a complete flop throughout the entire season. Renowned for his ability to hit big shots, Powell appeared to crumble under pressure on several occasions and struggled significantly to finish matches for the team. Given the limited slots available for overseas players, KKR may decide to give an opportunity to another explosive batsman in his place.
4. Ajinkya Rahane
Under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy, KKR appeared completely ineffective during the IPL 2026 season. Although he scored 63 runs in the final match against Delhi, his overall performance throughout the tournament was extremely poor. He also appeared to buckle under pressure as captain, and the team suffered due to a series of poor decisions and weak strategies. Consecutive defeats in the first six matches completely shattered the team. Now, the franchise is looking to make a fresh start with a young captain; consequently, Rahane may be released from the team.
5. Cameron Green
KKR acquired Australian all-rounder Cameron Green at the auction with high expectations. The franchise hoped that Green would be able to exert pressure on opposing teams through the strength of his exceptional batting and bowling; however, the entire season proved to be deeply disappointing for him. He failed to play any substantial innings in the middle order and was unable to make any significant impact with his bowling either. Given Green's hefty salary and the limited slots available for overseas players, KKR management may decide to release him in order to save some funds from their current budget.
Also Read: Who Will Replace Jacob Bethell for the IPL 2026 Playoffs?
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