Shane Watson Appointed as Assistant Coach of Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2026

By Guest - Nov 13, 2025 08:59 PM
Last updated on Nov 13, 2025 08:59 PM

The Kolkata Knight Riders have enriched their coaching staff with a big addition appointing Shane Watson as their assistant coach which is a step forward towards IPL 2026. The Australian former all-rounder, with his international playing and T20 experience, will be part of the upcoming coaching staff alongside head coach Abhishek Nayar and will contribute to KKR's plans in the rebuilding phase.

Watson has a coaching career where he has already been working in the IPL circuit (notably with Delhi Capitals), which means that he is familiar with the Indian T20 scene, the market and its demands. For KKR who want to take their stock back, his appointment is a clear message: to improve their batting, all-round capability and tactical adaptability. The aspect of his readiness to mentor younger players and share experiences from his international career is going to be a very significant plus.

From the franchise’s standpoint, KKR have selected Watson for his credentials but also for his experience in tough environments. He has proved his mettle in world-class competitions, held the burden of being the leading player and has enjoyed success in local leagues.

That kind of exposure will be hard to come by for a team that is looking to re-assert themselves in IPL 2026. Besides, Watson’s presence could also contribute towards the creation of a more aggressive, adaptable approach in KKR that would suit the current trends in the shorter format.

Also read: Top 5 Players with Most Double Centuries in Ranji Trophy History: Who Tops the List? - Trade Brains Sports

Coaching / Support Staff Roles

Shane Watson's coaching experience comprises the role of head coach of the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket (MLC), where the team reached the playoffs in his last two seasons (2024 and 2025) following a fifth-place finish in the first season ever. He was an assistant coach for the Delhi Capitals in the IPL (2022-2023) and head coach of the Quetta Gladiators in the PSL (2024). He will be the assistant coach for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2026.

Players Likely to Be Released by KKR

According to the recent reports by Trade Brain Sports, in the run-up to the IPL 2026 season, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are likely to make big decisions and there are a few names which are expected to be released. KKR's domestic player budget may be balanced by the release of Chetan Sakariya, who, after playing only one match, did not create much of an impact.

Mayank Markande who did not feature in a single game in the previous season might also be released due to his limited opportunities. Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy are already handling the spin duties, so Talented Anukul Roy is also in the same boat being another left-arm spinner that KKR is not able to utilize.

In the overseas section, Anrich Nortje is likely to be let go after being plagued by injuries for the last two years. This might pave the way for a more consistent fast bowler and the overseas slot will not be wasted on a player suffering from injuries. Spencer Johnson who was auctioned for ₹2.80 crore did not leave a good impression in terms of his control and consistency, which ultimately makes him another candidate for a possible release. However, the biggest decision could be about Andre Russell.

The KKR superstar has been with the team for over a decade but recurring injuries and poor performance in 2025 have put his future with the team in serious doubt, KKR may finally let him go. Finally, Venkatesh Iyer who was bought for a whopping ₹23.75 crores ahead of IPL 2025 failed to deliver, thus KKR may release him to generate some funds and be able to buy him back later at a lower price during the auction.

Written By:- Manjunath

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