Mumbai: Kolkata Knight Riders have made a bold statement in the TATA IPL 2026 Auction, targeting the top-order with Cameron Green after the departure of Andre Russell. Speaking on JioHotstar’s ‘TATA IPL Auction Review’, KKR Head Coach Abhishek Nayar revealed the thinking behind this key move:
“We wanted to go all out for Green. If we have the resources, we spend it. With Russell gone, we needed someone to take the franchise forward, and Cameron Green fits that role perfectly.”
Green, known for his explosive top-order batting, is expected to shoulder the responsibility of scoring big runs for KKR. Nayar explained: “We see him batting in the top three. He’s capable of scoring 500 runs in a season and solving different problems for us. Our success over the years often came when our top three contributed over 400 runs. Green can deliver that consistency.”
JioStar experts weighed in on KKR’s auction strategy. Anil Kumble praised the team’s approach: “KKR did really well. Rachin Ravindra at base price was a smart buy. While he didn’t have the best season with CSK, he’s a quality player. The top order, with Tim Seifert or Finn Allen opening and Cameron Green stepping in for Andre Russell, gives them serious batting firepower. The squad looks solid.”
Robin Uthappa highlighted the challenges for pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who is working to regain his best form:
“Pathirana’s form has dipped over the last 12–18 months. Injury and changes in action have affected him. But if he can return to his old side-on action, his effectiveness will return. Training with Lasith Malinga is a positive sign, especially considering how tough Eden Gardens is for fast bowlers.”
KKR also attempted to re-sign Venkatesh Iyer, but the franchise couldn’t secure him: “Venkatesh has been a franchise player from the start, and we tried to bring him back at a lower price. He’s experienced and adds flexibility, but RCB outbid us this year. He’s been phenomenal for us, and we wish him the best in his new IPL journey.”
With Cameron Green leading the charge at the top, KKR are making it clear they are ready to build their batting-centric strategy around him and aim for a strong IPL 2026 campaign.
