1. Cameron Green

The Australian all-rounder is KKR’s top choice. With Russell retired and Iyer released, the team needs a pace-bowling all-rounder like Green. In IPL matches, he has already showcased his talent with 707 runs and 16 wickets in 29 games. The auction for him is expected to be competitive, and he could even become one of the most expensive players in history.

2. Jamie Smith

This English batsman can bat at any position. He can open, form a partnership with Narine, or finish matches. Additionally, he could solve KKR’s wicketkeeping issue, as de Kock and Rishabh Gurunath have been released. Jamie Smith has already scored 130 runs in 5 T20 matches at a strike rate of 194.02.

3. Jacob Duffy

Duffy could be an ideal choice to strengthen KKR’s pace attack, especially in death overs. The New Zealand bowler has taken 53 wickets in 38 T20 matches. After Russell’s retirement, he could become KKR’s main weapon in the death overs.

4. Prithvi Shaw

KKR needs a strong Indian opener, and Prithvi Shaw could fill that gap. The Indian batsman has recently shown consistency in domestic cricket. KKR’s head coach Abhishek Nayar has also expressed interest in coaching Shaw. With a base price of just ₹75 lakh, he is an affordable option for the team.

5. Venkatesh Iyer

The team may try to bring him back. Despite being released, Iyer shares a good relationship with KKR. He could be valuable as a future captain. Iyer’s interest in the team is clear, so a reunion in the auction is possible.

KKR নজরে এই ৩ তারকা উইকেটকিপার! IPL নিলাম ঘিরে তুঙ্গে উত্তেজনা

Surprisingly, KKR have also released all three of their wicketkeeper-batters: Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Luvnith Sisodia.

As a result, the wicketkeeping department now has a major vacancy. Therefore, the franchise is expected to focus heavily on foreign wicketkeepers in the upcoming auction. A recent report from Sportskeeda claims that KKR have already shortlisted three international wicketkeeper-batters.

On 15 November, the cricket world was shocked as KKR ended their 11-year association with Andre Russell — one of the most talked-about decisions in the franchise’s history. Along with Russell, KKR also released Venkatesh Iyer (₹23.75 crore) and several other well-known names. With these departures, KKR now has a huge purse of ₹64.3 crore, giving them strong advantage at the auction table.

1. Jonny Bairstow (England) – KKR’s Primary Target

According to reports, Jonny Bairstow is the first-choice target for KKR as they look to strengthen their wicketkeeping lineup.

Why Bairstow?

Explosive opening batter

Vast T20 experience

World-class wicketkeeper

Ability to win matches single-handedly

KKR are reportedly ready to spend big on Bairstow if a bidding war breaks out.

2. Jamie Smith (England)

England’s rising star Jamie Smith is seen by the KKR management as a long-term investment. His impressive batting ability and lightning-fast glovework make him one of the most exciting young options in the auction.

3. Shai Hope (West Indies)

West Indies’ dependable batter Shai Hope brings technique, composure, and experience — qualities that could add depth to KKR’s T20 lineup. His presence might also inspire the younger batters in the squad.