IPL 3 KKR players who should receive a better pay in IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) had an uneven IPL 2025 and missed the playoffs. Despite being unpaid, a few underappreciated players quietly contributed to the squad during the chaos. In order to appropriately reward their valued assets, KKR should reorder its objectives as the IPL 2026 auction draws near.

Consistency, flexibility, and influence during pivotal moments are essential in T20 cricket. Players who fulfill these positions contribute to the resilience and balance of the squad. In addition to inspiring them, fair compensation fortifies KKR's unity and team spirit.

Here are the KKR players who should receive a better pay in IPL 2026:

1. Ajinkya Rahane

Even though KKR only paid ₹1.5 crore for him, Ajinkya Rahane provided consistency and elegance to the team's top order all season long. At a strike rate of 147.72, he amassed 390 runs in 14 innings, including a highest score of 61. Under duress, his experience and cool head were invaluable.

Rahane’s leadership on and off the field also added value, especially when younger players struggled. He is a strategic asset because of his ability to change direction in the middle of an inning. His continued value to the team would be appropriately reflected in a compensation increase.

2. Varun Chakaravarthy

Varun Chakaravarthy, with 17 wickets at an economy rate of 7.66 in 13 games, remained KKR's most reliable bowler. His best statistics this season were 3/22, and he consistently made breakthroughs in the middle overs. Additionally, he reached 100 IPL wickets the quickest of any Indian spinner.

Chakaravarthy is on a ₹12 crore deal, but his performances have made it even more worth it. His control made him indispensable, and his tight spells defined matches. Given his rising prominence in the league, a compensation increase based on performance wouldn't be out of the question.

3. Vaibhav Arora

The right-arm pacer Vaibhav Arora demonstrated his effectiveness with the new ball by taking 17 wickets in 14 games at an economy of 10.11 with best bowling of 3/29.  He kept pressure from one end and ended relationships often.

Arora, who was signed for ₹1.80 crore, was incredibly valuable.  His consistency, swing, and pace were essential to KKR's bowling strategies.  A higher salary would acknowledge his increasing influence and motivate him to keep becoming a better frontline seamer.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at BetBarter and download the BetBarter app to start betting today!