KKR probable playing 11 for IPL 2026 after auction

Kolkata Knight Riders made full use of their strong purse at the IPL 2026 mini auction. Entering the auction in Abu Dhabi with INR 64.4 crore, the highest among all teams, and 13 slots to fill, KKR were always expected to dominate proceedings. They lived up to that billing by securing the two biggest buys of the night.

The headline signing was Australia all-rounder Cameron Green, snapped up for INR 25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history. KKR boosted their bowling attack by signing Sri Lankan speedster Matheesha Pathirana for INR 18 crore. They further strengthened their pace attack by picking up Mustafizur Rahman for INR 9.2 crore during the accelerated rounds.

With quality options across departments, KKR now has the good headache of selecting their best XI. Overall, the three-time champions spent smartly and aggressively, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the IPL 2026 title.

Here is Kolkata Knight Riders' predicted playing 11 for IPL 2026

Top-Order: Finn Allen (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Cameron Green

Kolkata Knight Riders’ top order for IPL 2026 will witness a new opening combination. After struggling with an unsettled opening pair last year, head coach Abhishek Nayar has confirmed that Sunil Narine will not open the batting this season, making the way for captain Ajinkya Rahane to partner with New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Finn Allen at the top.

Allen’s attacking approach makes him the ideal powerplay player, capable of putting bowlers under pressure from the very first over and strengthening KKR’s scoring rate. At the other end, Rahane will be wearing the captain's hat and anchoring the innings.

The top three are further strengthened by Cameron Green, who is set to bat at No.3. The INR 25.5 crore all-rounder is set to be a crucial part of Kolkata's batting order.