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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season by bolstering their coaching team with the addition of former Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicketkeeper-batter, Dishant Yagnik, as their new fielding coach. This strategic move highlights KKR’s commitment to elevating their on-field performance, as they assemble a robust support staff filled with seasoned international and IPL veterans. 

Yagnik, who has been appointed as the fielding coach, brings a wealth of experience from the IPL world. During his playing career, he represented Rajasthan in domestic cricket and played 25 IPL matches from 2011 to 2014 as a wicketkeeper-batter.

Although his playing time was limited, he earned a reputation as a dedicated professional with keen technical skills, especially when it came to wicketkeeping. 

After hanging up his boots, Yagnik made a seamless transition into coaching. Over the years, he has focused on enhancing players' agility, catching skills, throwing accuracy, and wicketkeeping techniques. His meticulous approach and eye for detail have garnered him respect across various franchises, making his role at KKR a fitting next step in his coaching journey. 

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At KKR, Yagnik joins a newly formed and highly skilled support staff. The franchise has made significant investments in creating a leadership team filled with former players who truly grasp the pressures and challenges of top-tier T20 cricket. 

The setup is spearheaded by head coach Abhishek Nayar, with former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo stepping in as a mentor. Australia’s cricket legend Shane Watson has also joined as an assistant coach, while New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee will take charge of the bowling department.

Adding a fresh perspective to the team is Andre Russell, who has taken on the newly established role of Power Coach after announcing his retirement from IPL play. Russell’s ongoing involvement emphasizes KKR’s dedication to maintaining the franchise’s unique identity and culture.