Kolkata Knight Riders started IPL 2022 well but later lost their way in the campaign. It was on expected lines because their IPL 2022 Auctions did not go well. However, under their new Head Coach Chandrakant Pandit, KKR will hope to revive their form. They might have to release some expensive signings back into the auction pool. This way, they can also free up funds and slots for better performance at the auctions. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of four players Kolkata Knight Riders might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions.
1) Pat Cummins
Pat Cummins was hired at INR 7.25 Cr at IPL 2022 Auction. The Aussie won a few games for the franchise but that was the with the bat. With the ball, Cummins could not leave an impact. While he is not known for his excellence in the powerplay, Cummins is also not a reliable death bowler. At times, he leaks a lot of runs. While he may be efficient with the willow, he can also be inconsistent with it.
In Umesh Yadav and Tim Southee, KKR has a good new-ball duo. They desperately need a reliable pacer for the death overs. If they release Cummins, they will have funds to spend on a new pacer. There are very few options in the market but with some good scouting, KKR can manage to find a good player.
2) Shivam Mavi
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Shivam Mavi is one of the players Kolkata Knight Riders might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions. The young pacer did not justify his price tag of INR 7.25 Cr in IPL 2022. He was often dropped from the XI and even did not get a consistent run. Especially considering his price tag, Mavi is very likely to be released.
KKR can utilize Chandrakant Pandit’s expertise in Indian domestic cricket. There would be some unknown commodity waiting for the opportunity to break out. KKR will hope that their new Head Coach will be able to do that with some wise signings at the auctions.
3) Sam Billings
Sam Billings was a last-minute buy for KKR in IPL 2022 Auctions. The franchise did not have a wicketkeeper and hence, they had to buy the Englishman. However, Billings could not do well. He had a lot of games to showcase his skills. However, he was just not able to do well for the franchise.
KKR might now need to concentrate on a wicketkeeper who can also open the innings. They would also need some efficient batters who can operate in the lower middle order. There would be some fine options in the market but KKR must ensure that they already chalk out the list of targets before the auctions.
4) Ajinkya Rahane
Ajinkya Rahane is also one of the players Kolkata Knight Riders might release before the IPL 2023 Auctions. The Mumbai cricketer was not good for KKR last season. He was also dropped for a few games. If KKR wants to continue with Venkatesh Iyer as one of the openers, Rahane is surely not the best partner for the all-rounder.
There are plenty of young openers in India who can do well for KKR. Some of the options include Rohan Patil, Rohan Kunnummal and Yash Dubey. It would be best for KKR to explore some new talents as it would help them in the future.
