5 players KKR might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction
Let us take a look at five players who could be dropped for the next auction by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Quinton de Kock
Veteran South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock could be among the big names released by the franchise in the IPL 2026 mini auction. Picked for INR 3.6 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, De Kock was expected to provide the explosive starts KKR needed at the top. However, the southpaw couldn’t deliver the way his franchise hoped for, managing only 152 runs in eight matches at an average of 21.71 and a strike rate of 129.91.
Despite having immense international and franchise cricket experience, De Kock struggled to adapt to KKR’s setup and lost his place midway through the season. With the team eyeing different opening options, the management may consider releasing him to free up an overseas slot and funds ahead of the next auction. De Kock’s return to international cricket for South Africa’s upcoming Pakistan tour may see him get a new franchise, but after a disappointing IPL 2025, his future with KKR looks difficult.
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