The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) kicked off IPL 2025 with big dreams, a lineup full of stars, and a passionate fanbase cheering them on. However, what unfolded was one of their most disappointing seasons in recent memory. Struggling with poor team combinations, underperforming veterans, and a lack of tactical execution, the franchise found itself stuck near the bottom of the table. It’s clear that a major overhaul is in order.
Here are 8 KKR players who need to be let go immediately if the team wants to come back stronger in IPL 2026.
1. Venkatesh Iyer
Once seen as KKR’s next big thing, Venkatesh Iyer’s performance has taken a nosedive. Despite getting plenty of chances at both the top and middle order, he just couldn’t make a significant impact this season. His strike rate dropped, and his struggle to adapt to different match situations was hard to miss. With younger, more eager talents emerging in domestic cricket, it’s time for KKR to part ways.
2. Andre Russell
A name that once represented power and KKR’s glory days, Andre Russell now seems like a shadow of his former self. His fitness has become a real concern, and during IPL 2025, he appeared worn out both as a bowler and a finisher. While his legacy is undeniable, cricket is all about current form, and Russell’s diminishing influence on matches makes him a costly liability.
3. Sunil Narine
Another KKR icon, Narine’s once-enigmatic presence has faded in recent seasons. Although he occasionally dazzles with the ball, his inconsistency with both bat and ball in 2025 revealed the risks of relying on past achievements. Teams have figured out his variations, and with younger spinners like Record-Breaker Harsh Dubey making waves this season, it’s time to invest in the future.
4. Nitish Rana
Rana has been a loyal player for KKR over the years, but his performances in IPL 2025 left much to be desired. As a senior batsman, he struggled to anchor innings or pick up the pace when necessary. His strike rotation was slow, and he often fell at crucial moments. KKR needs a more dependable middle-order batsman to step up.
The strike rotation was a bit sluggish, and he often found himself out during crucial moments. KKR really needs a more dependable middle-order player if they want to rebuild effectively.
5. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur was expected to bring that X-factor with both bat and ball, but unfortunately, he didn’t deliver in 2025. His bowling was costly, and he struggled to make an impact during the powerplay and death overs. Although his batting was supposed to be a bonus, it rarely made a difference in the matches. Considering his price tag and performance, letting him go could free up some funds for more reliable all-rounders.
6. Litton Das
The Bangladeshi wicketkeeper-batsman had a season to forget, having a tough time adjusting to Indian pitches and the pressure of the IPL. His struggles as both an opener and a middle-order batter cost KKR some valuable starts and finishes. With other international and domestic options available, KKR can afford to part ways with Litton and seek someone who’s more ready for the IPL challenge.
7. Lockie Ferguson
Known for his speed and aggression, Ferguson was expected to lead KKR’s bowling attack. However, injuries and inconsistency plagued his IPL 2025 season. He often fell short in critical moments and leaked runs during the death overs. In a tournament where economy and key breakthroughs are crucial, Ferguson’s performance just didn’t cut it.
8. Vaibhav Arora
The young Indian pacer showed promise in earlier seasons but didn’t step up in 2025. His bowling lacked control, making him a target for opposing batsmen. While he still has potential, KKR can’t afford to keep players who aren’t performing, especially with uncapped stars like Harsh Dubey emerging as record-breakers this season, setting new standards for young bowlers.
Time for Tough Decisions
Letting go of big names is always tough. Fans have a strong emotional connection to players like Russell, Narine, and Iyer. However, the IPL is all about results, and loyalty needs to be balanced with practicality. KKR’s struggles in 2025 weren’t due to a lack of talent, but rather a hesitance to adapt.
The franchise must now look to make some hard choices.
The franchise is now at a crossroads, needing to focus on dynamic talents and build around the rising stars. Players like Record-Breaker Harsh Dubey have proven that young talent can shine under pressure. KKR’s scouting and development strategies should pivot towards players who bring fresh energy and can adapt tactically.
What’s Next for KKR?
With the mega-auction for IPL 2026 on the horizon, KKR has a fantastic chance to hit the reset button. It’s time to let go of underperforming players and invest in in-form athletes, aggressive all-rounders, and clever finishers as their main focus.
KKR also needs to think about the long game. They should reassess the team’s structure, coaching staff, and leadership group. With some smart decisions, this proud franchise can get back into title contention—starting with a bold list of releases.
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Final Thoughts
Saying goodbye to familiar faces is never easy, especially those who have played a part in KKR’s past triumphs. But IPL 2025 has made one thing clear: sentiment can’t take precedence over performance anymore. If KKR is serious about regaining its former glory, it needs to make these 8 cuts and start fresh with a sharper, more cohesive squad.
The Knight Riders owe it to their fans—and to their legacy.
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