Indian Premier League (IPL) has gained immense popularity across the world. The toughest franchise league in the world has seen some of the greatest cricketers take part in. Over the years the league has seen some young talents coming up and making their name on the world stage. From the likes of Sanju Samson to Jasprit Bumrah all have established themselves in the world cricket fraternity.
IPL 2024 was exciting with some batting brilliance seen in the tournament. There were many records broken in the season. With the pitches in the earlier stages favouring the batters. However, the 2025 edition will be much more competitive and exciting. All the teams will be re-shuffled as the mega auction will take place ahead of the season. There will be more cricketers who be introduced in the mega auction and some overseas also will get some big buys after their last year’s performances.
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) performed exceptionally in the 2024 season winning the IPL after 10 years. They had a fairly decent side on paper. However, the mentality of the players changed after Gautam Gambhir came back as a mentor. But this time the former KKR captain will not be present in the camp as he has been appointed as the Indian national team head coach. They will have some tough choices to make for their retention list. In the article, we take a look at the players that will be retained by the side.
Here are the 4 players Kolkata Knight Riders will retain ahead of the mega auction
4. Rinku Singh
Rinku Singh has been one of the brightest talents for India. The left-handed batter has made his name for the KKR and broke out in the Indian team as well. Rinku had to wait for his time and did not disappoint after he got a chance in the team. The UP-born batter has been known for his exceptional finishing skills and long-range hitting. KKR will not let go of such a batter who has been a match-winner for the side.
3. Andre Russell
Andre Russell has been one of the finest all-rounders in the T20I format. The big West Indian had an amazing season with KKR. The season led him to get back to the national side as well. Russell has been amazing with the ball in the last season for the Knights. Though his batting prowess was not tested much. He will be another player retained by the side in the upcoming season.
2. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer’s return to the KKR side was immensely boosted. He earned them their much-awaited third silverware. He was brilliant with his captaincy and batting as well. The captain will be the obvious choice to be retained by the Knights. They can use his leadership skill set in the upcoming seasons as well. Iyer will also strengthen the middle order of the side.
1. Sunil Narine
Sunil Narine is probably the GOAT of T20 cricket. Playing over 500 T20 matches he has given a lot of experience and strength to a side. He was picked by KKR in 2012 and since then they have never parted ways with the West Indies all-rounder. Narine has exceptionally worked on his batting skills. It was visible last season as he won the MVP (Most Valuable Player). He will be the first player to be retained by the side.
