KKR Confirms Ajinkya Rahane as Captain for IPL 2026; Russell Appointed Power Coach
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have announced their leadership structure and coaching staff ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, confirming that **Ajinkya Rahane** will continue as captain. Despite a challenging 2025 season where the team finished eighth, the franchise is opting for stability in leadership as they prepare for a major squad overhaul, entering the auction with the largest purse of INR 64.3 crore.
In a strategic move, KKR also appointed franchise legend Andre Russell as the team's Power Coach. Russell, who was released from the playing squad, will now transition into a crucial backroom role, ensuring his explosive knowledge remains within the KKR camp. This decision allows KKR to retain Russell's expertise while freeing up a valuable overseas slot and addressing his recent fitness concerns and dip in form.
The franchise is also planning a tactical shift at the top of the order, with reports indicating that Sunil Narine will not open the innings in the upcoming season. With a new coaching staff including Abhishek Nayar, Shane Watson, and Tim Southee, KKR is signaling a commitment to strategic rebuilding around a core group of retained players.
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“Ajinkiya Rahane to continue as KKR captain.”
Nagraj Gollapudi, ESPNcricinfo journalist
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Related Statistics
Most Runs at Eden Gardens
Batting specialists with most career runs scored at Eden Gardens (batters/all-rounders/wicketkeepers only)
| Select | Rank | Player | Team | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Delhi Capitals | 680 runs | ||
#2 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 627 runs | ||
#3 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 540 runs | ||
| #4 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 514 runs | ||
| #5 | Gujarat Titans | 509 runs |
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“Ajinkiya Rahane to continue as KKR captain.”
Nagraj Gollapudi, ESPNcricinfo journalist
- Player
- Ajinkya Rahane
- Specialization
- Batter
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance