Kolkata Knight Riders had a solid run in IPL 2024. The team would still want to make some changes before the next season. The focus could be on adding depth and planning for the future. They could also release some of their players. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three players KKR will surely release before the IPL 2025 Mega Auctions.
1) KS Bharat
After Phil Salt was signed, the chances for KS Bharat was always going to be less. Hence, he did not get a single game to play in IPL 2024. Therefore, he could be released by the outfit.
KKR would want to target someone young and more attacking with the bat. They would preferably want someone who can operate in the lower middle-order. If someone such as Jitesh Sharma would be available in the auctions, KKR could target such a player. It adds balance and at the same time, they could plan for the future with a proper domestic wicket-keeper in the ranks.
2) Sherfane Rutherford
Sherfane Rutherford is one of the players KKR will surely release before the IPL 2025 Mega Auctions. While he has done well in recent times, the West Indian, as expected, did not get a game in IPL 2024.
Nevertheless, he might still be released. This is because KKR already has good left-handed middle-order batters in Nitish Rana, Venkatesh Iyer and Rinku Singh. Hence, there may not be space for Rutherford in the coming seasons.
3) Dushmantha Chameera
The Sri Lankan speedster was the replacement signing for Gus Atkinson. In the limited opportunities he got, Chameera was not able to leave an impact. Hence, KKR is likely to release him.
KKR could target to get back Gus Atkinson. At the same time, they could have their eye on some of the younger fast bowlers who are mainly T20 specialists. This would help the franchise in the long run and also make them balanced in all the departments.