3 KKR gamers who should be launched after IPL 2026 ft. Matheesha Pathirana

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) endured a disappointing campaign in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL). They made a dreadful start, and although a midseason recovery kept them in the playoff hunt until their penultimate league game, they didn’t meet expectations.

Over the last few years, the Knight Riders’ roster hasn’t been constructed very well. Having had to make multiple changes and offload big contracts that didn’t offer enough value, the three-time IPL champions find themselves in the same boat once again.

On that note, here are three KKR players who must be released after IPL 2026.

#3 Matheesha Pathirana

KKR’s second-most expensive signing at the IPL 2026 auction, Matheesha Pathirana continued to struggle with injuries. The slingy pacer was out for most of the tournament, and when he returned towards the end of the league stage, he immediately suffered another niggle.

Pathirana’s price tag is simply too risky, given his recent fitness issues. KKR also managed to field a spin-heavy attack, and even if he is fit, it remains to be seen whether he fits the current composition of the playing XII. Kolkata might have to release him and potentially buy him back at an amount that hedges against his injury record.

#2 Ajinkya Rahane

At ₹1.5 crore, Ajinkya Rahane might still add value as a batter, if not as a captain. But KKR need to move on from him at some point, and the time seems ripe to do so.

In IPL 2026, Rahane didn’t make an impact at the top of the order. Struggling against both pace and spin, the Kolkata skipper didn’t do enough to warrant having the reins. With other options like Rinku Singh in the mix, KKR might have to bite the bullet and release the experienced batter, who is clearly well past his prime.

#1 Mustafizur Rahman

Mustafizur Rahman didn’t turn up for IPL 2026 due to issues outside his control. With uncertainty regarding Bangladesh players’ participation, KKR will need to release the left-armer immediately.

Mustafizur fetched more than ₹8 crore at the auction, and that’s money that the Knight Riders might be throwing down the drain if they opt to retain him. Needing the funds to strengthen other areas of the squad, Kolkata will need to let him go.