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Disappointing Season for KKR

Entering the 2025 season as the reigning champions, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) experienced a disappointing IPL campaign, finishing in eighth place on the points table. This decline was largely attributed to a significant drop in their batting performance, which has been a persistent issue throughout the season.

Struggling Batting Performance

KKR recorded the second-lowest strike rate in the tournament at 143.29, only slightly better than the Chennai Super Kings' 139.04, and they also hit the fewest boundaries of any team. With the mini-auction for IPL 2026 approaching, the Knight Riders are expected to reassess their team structure, particularly focusing on strengthening their lower-middle order.

Potential Departures: Rinku Singh

Rinku Singh, once celebrated as KKR's 'Trusted Finisher', has seen a dramatic decline in his performance since his standout season in 2023. That year, he scored 474 runs at an impressive average of 59.25, famously hitting five consecutive sixes in a crucial match against the Gujarat Titans. However, his form has since faltered.

In IPL 2025, he managed only 206 runs across 13 matches, averaging 29.42 with a highest score of 38. Although his strike rate saw a slight increase, his overall contributions were minimal. His struggles extended to international play, where he scored just 39 runs at a strike rate of 121.87 during a T20I series against England earlier this year.

Given his current form and doubts about his match-winning abilities, KKR may look for more reliable options for the finisher role.

Potential Departures: Ramandeep Singh

Ramandeep Singh entered IPL 2025 with optimism following a decent 2024 season, but he failed to make a significant impact this year. Participating in seven matches, he had limited opportunities to bowl and only accumulated 47 runs in seven innings, averaging a mere 9.40.

His strike rate of 134.28 offered little consolation as KKR struggled to gain momentum with the bat. On a positive note, he did excel in the field, making three catches against Punjab Kings that were crucial in KKR's record-breaking defense of the lowest total in IPL history. However, his overall performance did not warrant a secure spot in the team.

With his diminished role and lackluster performance, the Knight Riders may consider releasing the 27-year-old as they aim to revamp their lower-middle order.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding for IPL 2026

This presents a prime opportunity for KKR to restructure their lower order, especially with a mini-auction on the horizon that may feature established power-hitters. Players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, and Glenn Phillips could be available if their current franchises decide to let them go. Additionally, promising Indian talents such as Swastik Chikara and Shahrukh Khan are expected to attract interest.

For a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing title defense, revitalizing the batting lineup, particularly the finishers, will be crucial. This may necessitate parting ways with Rinku and Ramandeep in favor of a more consistent and reliable core.

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