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

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) had a horrible IPL 2025. As defending champions, expectations were much higher, but they failed to qualify for the playoffs. They finished in the eight spot with 12 points in 14 games (five wins, seven losses and two no results) with a net run rate of -0.305. 

Now ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, they have retained only 12 players and will enter the auction with the highest available purse — Rs. 64.3 crore. KKR can fill a maximum of 13 slots, including six overseas slots. So, considering the retained players, KKR still need a few good bowlers to be more competitive in the coming years and fight for their fourth IPL title.

Here are the 5 bowlers KKR might target in the mini-auction

1. Matheesha Pathirana

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have released the young Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, and strong reports suggest that KKR have already made contact with him as they have massive interest. 

Pathirana is known for his unique side-arm action and, in his last four seasons with CSK, he picked up 47 wickets in 32 games at an economy of 8.68. His ability to swing the ball and bowl yorkers and slower balls makes him an exciting talent in the modern game.

2. Akash Deep

This Indian quick could be a potential target for KKR. Akash Deep plays for Bengal in domestic cricket and is very used to bowling at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, which is KKR’s home ground.

Considering the experience he already has at Eden Gardens across formats, KKR might be tempted to use that and have him in their bowling unit. In IPL 2025, Akash Deep was with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), but in six games, he picked only three wickets at an economy of 12.05.

3. Reece Topley

KKR have often looked for an overseas left-arm pacer in recent seasons. In IPL 2024 they had Australia’s Mitchell Starc, and in the last season they had young Aussie Spencer Johnson. So if they continue to value what a left-arm pacer brings, England’s Reece Topley could be an option. However, he has played only six IPL matches so far, taking five wickets at an economy of 11.10.

4. Vignesh Puthur

This young Indian spinner impressed many last season while playing for the Mumbai Indians (MI). In five games, he took six wickets at an economy of 9.08. KKR are known for investing in young spinners, as they once did with Suyash Sharma. 

For Vignesh Puthur, this could also be a great opportunity to work alongside top spinners like Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy. So if KKR decide to go for him, it should not be a surprise.

5. Simarjeet Singh

Simarjeet Singh had a tough IPL 2025 with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). He managed only two wickets in four games at an economy of 14.10. But considering his potential and skills, KKR can still look at him as a backup option. In his first two IPL seasons while playing for CSK, he grabbed nine wickets in 10 games.

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