IPL 2020: Kolkata Knight Riders search for new direction after releasing veterans

Enduring a disappointing season last year, Kolkata Knight Riders have embarked on a fresh direction ahead of the December auctions. They have released some high-profile players and will hope for some impactful buys during the bidding process. With the second-biggest purse, KKR will likely go big for their preferred targets during the auctions. Under the mentorship of new head coach Brendon McCullum, the strategy of the Kolkata-based franchise will certainly be a fascinating watch during the December 19 event.

The retained bunch

Kolkata have decided not to rock the boat much as far as their key performers are concerned. Retaining the devastating Andre Russell was a no-brainer. Dinesh Karthik will be afforded another opportunity to shape the side in his mould. Shubman Gill is regarded as the future superstar of Indian cricket and will be expected to have a big season ahead. Nitesh Rana, Shivam Mavi, Kuldeep Yadav, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Prasidh Krishna form a strong Indian core. KKR will also expect Sunil Narine to find his consistency both with the bat and the ball during the upcoming season.

Retained players: Dinesh Karthik, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Kuldeep Yadav, Shubman Gill, Lockie Ferguson, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Sandeep Warrier, Harry Gurney, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Shivam Mavi, Siddhesh Lad (Traded In)

The released ones

The players KKR decided to release sure did make the headlines. Robin Uthappa and Piyush Chawla, so important to their success over the years were let go. The pair have seen their performances decline over the past couple of years and Kolkata’s management decided that it was time for a reset. Chris Lynn too was cut after his explosive powers at the top of the order waned last season. Lynn also remains an injury-prone prospect and cannot be relied upon for a whole season. Carlos Brathwaite is too inconsistent and KKR could search for better options in the market. The remainder of the players released were backup options at best and their absence isn’t likely to hinder them much.

Released Players: Chris Lynn, Carlos Brathwaite, Robin Uthappa, Piyush Chawla, Nikhil Naik, KC Cariappa, Joe Denly, Srikant Munde, Yarra Prithviraj, Anrich Nortje.

The Trade Window

Kolkata Knight Riders were surprisingly quiet during the trading window. The only addition to their squad was Mumbai Indians batsman Siddhesh Lad who could prove to be a shrewd acquisition. Lad is versatile enough to bat anywhere in the order and has loads of experience on the domestic circuit.

Remaining purse & auction strategy

With a purse of 35.65 crores left in their kitty, KKR can afford to go all guns blazing. They still have 11 slots available, 4 of which are overseas players. Packing some explosive firepower in the batting department is an area which will need to be addressed. With departures of Uthappa and Lynn, the top order, in particular, will be a priority. As such, the likes of Jason Roy and Tom Banton could interest the KKR management. Getting an all-rounder to backup the injury-prone Russell will also feature on their agenda. Finally, propping up their pace bowling attack with a world-class bowler will also be on their check-list.