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The three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) had a mixed outing in the 2025 season and will be eager to rebuild strongly ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. With several tactical decisions to make, the franchise surprised many by releasing long-time star Andre Russell while retaining Sunil Narine, sparking widespread discussion among fans and analysts.

KKR’s decision to move on from Russell was particularly intriguing because the franchise simultaneously appointed him as the team’s Power Coach, ensuring no other franchise could pick him at the auction. Russell, who has represented KKR for more than a decade, has been one of their biggest match-winners. His explosive hitting and handy pace bowling have turned countless games. However, his recent dip in form, combined with recurring fitness concerns, meant KKR had to reassess their long-term plans. His underwhelming IPL 2025 campaign further pushed the management toward making a tough call.

With Russell released, KKR now need to identify a dependable all-rounder who can serve them well in the coming years. What raised eyebrows, however, was the franchise’s decision to retain Sunil Narine even though he is 37 years old and coming off a modest IPL season, where he picked only 12 wickets, well below his usual standards.

Narine has been with KKR since 2012 and has taken an impressive 192 wickets for the franchise, making him one of their most iconic players. His retention, despite his age, indicates that the franchise still values what he brings to the table. Unlike Russell, whose role heavily depends on his physical explosiveness, Narine’s value lies in his variations, accuracy, and ability to exploit spin-friendly Indian pitches, conditions where even aging spinners remain highly effective.

Moreover, Narine gives KKR flexibility as a potential Impact Player, a role in which he can be used strategically based on match situations. His experience, calm temperament, and ability to bowl economically in the powerplay phase continue to make him an X-factor bowler. With Varun Chakravarthy already performing well, Narine’s presence provides depth, variety, and leadership in the spin department.

Thus, KKR’s decision appears tactical, Russell’s declining returns and fitness concerns outweighed his upside, whereas Narine’s bowling skill set remains valuable in Indian conditions, making his retention the more strategic choice going into the 2026 season.