Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Harshit Rana has been ruled out of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The Delhi cricketer was part of Indiaโs T20 World Cup squad, but in the warm-up games, he suffered a knee injury, resulting in him being ruled out of the global tournament. India eventually replaced him with Mohammed Siraj, who claimed a three-wicket haul in the opening game against USA.ย
As per a Times of India report, the Three-time champions, KKR, are in the meantime, in the hunt for a possible replacement. On Friday, they announced the signing of Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani as Mustafizur Rahmanโs replacement, who was released following BCCIโs guidelines.
Meanwhile, Harshitโs injury is a significant setback for KKR, as the pacer was expected to handle the death overs following Andre Russellโs retirement from the IPL. Another key signing, Matheesha Pathirana, bought for INR 18 crore, is also doubtful after being ruled out of the T20 World Cup.
KKR management has yet to provide updates on Pathiranaโs fitness. The Sri Lankan fast bowler has struggled with injuries throughout his career, which was a key factor behind Chennai Super Kings releasing him previously. After signing for KKR, he was expected to solve the death over woes but itโs not clear if he will play any part in the forthcoming season. On top of that, not having Rana only made it worse for the Ajinkya Rahane-led side.ย
The team management is now reportedly working to find a bowler with a similar skillset, who can bowl in the middle overs and in the death.
KKR to reveal jersey on March 14
Kolkata will unveil their jersey on March 14 at 12 noon. The franchise has teased a retro-inspired kit but no official confirmation yet on the colours. In the initial years, the team used to don black and gold kit, which was extremely popular among fans but in 2012, they changed the colours to purple and yellow and also changed the logo.ย
KKRโs first four fixtures revealed
KKRโs opening four fixtures for IPL 2026 have been announced. The side will kick off their campaign against five-time champions Mumbai Indians on March 29 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. They will then play three consecutive home matches on April 2, 6, and 9, facing Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively.
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