IPL 2026: 5 Batters KKR might target in mini-auction

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) came into the IPL 2025 season as the defending champions. Expectations were high for them to deliver strong performances and defend their title. But the season did not go as planned at all. They failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished eighth with five wins and two no results in 14 games (12 points). 

Now, ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, 2025, KKR have made some tough calls. They have released the most players (11), including ending their 11-year association with veteran all-rounder Andre Russell.

They now head into the auction with the highest remaining purse of Rs 64.30 crore, with a maximum of 13 slots to fill, including six overseas slots. KKR fans will hope their franchise goes all out to sign big names and build a strong squad for the coming seasons. 

Considering their purse and retained players, KKR still need openers, a strong finisher who can deliver power-hitting like Russell did for 11 seasons, and solid middle-order batters — especially Indian options.

Here are the 5 batters KKR might target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

1. Rachin Ravindra

This young, solid and technically strong New Zealand batter can be a long-term option for KKR. Rachin Ravindra can bat at the top order and also in the middle order if needed. He can also bowl left-arm orthodox spin, which makes him more attractive. In the last two IPL seasons, he was part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) team. 

However, compared to 2024, he struggled last season, striking at 128.18 compared to 160.86 in 2024. He did not bowl either. But based on his potential, KKR might be eager to bring him on board for the upcoming seasons.

2. David Miller

This veteran South African batter’s form has dipped in recent times. After doing well for the Gujarat Titans (GT) from 2022 to 2024, he played for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) last season. 

But he did not deliver as expected and scored only 153 runs in 11 innings, striking at 127.49. Still, considering his experience of 141 IPL matches, KKR might view him as a proven finisher to fill the role Russell has handled for the last 11 years.

3. Liam Livingstone

This England power-hitter is another option KKR might consider for the finisher’s role. He was part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad in IPL 2025, where they lifted their maiden title. 

However, he managed only 112 runs in eight innings, despite a strike rate of 133.33. With the ball, he took just two wickets in five innings. Even then, because of his all-round ability and hitting power, KKR could be the team where Livingstone looks to revive his IPL reputation.

4. Josh Inglis

This Aussie wicketkeeper-batter could attract strong interest from KKR, especially after they released both Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quinton de Kock. Josh Inglis can provide stability in the batting order, especially at number three or four. 

He plays spin well and can rotate strike in the middle overs while also hitting powerful shots. In IPL 2025, he was with Punjab Kings (PBKS), scoring 278 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 162.57, including a fifty.

5. Venkatesh Iyer

KKR paid a massive Rs 23.75 crore to sign Venkatesh Iyer last season. They even named him deputy to skipper Ajinkya Rahane. But he had a forgettable season, scoring just 142 runs in seven innings before missing a few games at the backend of the tournament due to a hand injury. 

By releasing him, KKR have freed up a huge amount. But if they decide to go for him again, considering his ability to play both at the top and middle order, along with some medium pace bowling, it would not be a surprise. They might hope to get him back at a lower price, but how things unfold, only time will tell.

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