KKR Target Players 2026: Who’s on Their IPL Mini Auction Radar?

The buzz around the IPL Auction 2026 is growing fast, and one team entering the event with huge confidence is Kolkata Knight Riders. With a total of three IPL titles to their name and a reputation for fearless cricket, KKR aims to build a strong squad for another successful season.

This franchise will enter the auction with the highest purse money and will be looking to build a brand-new team as one of their core member has retired from the Indian Premier League, yes! We are talking about one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world, Andre Russell.

With a huge purse value of ₹64.3 crore and a clear strategy, one of the best IPL teams is ready to strengthen the squad for IPL 2026. They enter the auction with too many important slots to fill. In this article, we have covered the KKR Target Players 2026, why these names are top picks for KKR in IPL 2026, and the value they can bring to the table in the upcoming season.

KKR Target Players 2026 (Updated List)

Kolkata Knight Riders could target a few quality players to strengthen key areas in their squad. The name at the top of KKR Target Players 2026 list will be one of the best all-rounders in IPL, Cameron Green, as he offers a rare fast-bowling all-round option ideal for balance in the middle order, a perfect replacement for their former player and current power coach Andre Russell.

Last season's highest bid cricketer for Kolkata, Venkatesh Iyer, will most likely be purchased back in the auction, as he adds a left-hand power-hitting and bowling option. This franchise will also be looking to bring some pace attack, and Anrich Nortje will be the perfect option for them as he offers a wicket-taking threat in all phases.

Former Chennai Super Kings opener Devon Conway can provide consistency at the top as a left-hand attacking batter, as well as his wicket-keeping skills make him the top pick for Kolkata. Jake Fraser-McGurk can also be among the KKR target players 2026 mini auction for his fearless intent and explosive starts, fitting KKR’s aggressive style.

5. Jake Fraser-McGurk | ₹2 Crore

The player with one of the fastest fifties in IPL history, Jake Fraser-McGurk, offers explosive early scoring, something KKR will be looking for in their batting lineup. His fearless strokeplay and ability to build momentum from ball one make him ideal for Eden Gardens’ batting-friendly conditions that too along with Sunil Narine.

KKR often looks for young, dynamic top-order batters who can dominate powerplays. His potential as a top-order batter and gun-fielder put him in the KKR Target Players 2026 list for the auction.

4. Anrich Nortje | ₹2 Crore

South African pacer Anrich Nortje brings raw pace and wicket-taking ability, qualities KKR have been seeking in fast-bowling departments. His high-speed yorkers and sharp bouncers make him lethal on any surface, in every phase of the match. He might be targeted by Kolkata to strengthen their death-bowling unit.

3. Venkatesh Iyer | ₹2 Crore

Kolkata Knight Riders may look to reintroduce Venkatesh Iyer as a flexible middle-order presence who can float according to match situations. His experience with the franchise makes him a natural inclusion in the KKR target players 2026 mini auction strategy.

2. Devon Conway | ₹2 Crore

New Zealander wicket-keeper, Devon Conway, offers the stability and class KKR need at the top, especially in pressure chases. His consistent record in global T20 leagues and ability to anchor innings make him highly valuable.

With the three-time champions looking for a reliable wicket-keeping option, Conway becomes an ideal fit for them. His calm approach under pressure strengthens his position in the KKR Target Players 2026 list for the mini auction.

1. Cameron Green | ₹2 Crore

The player who might lead to a bidding war in the upcoming IPL mini auction 2026. The one who fits perfectly into KKR’s need for balance in the middle order, and is probably the best replacement among the available pool of players in the auction.

With the highest purse money among all the franchises, Kolkata might go all-out for Cameron Green. His presence will also add depth to both departments, making him a top pick in the KKR Target Players 2026 shortlist.