Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have suffered a major setback ahead of IPL 2026, with key fast bowlers Mitisha Pathirana and Harshit Rana battling injuries.The head coach Abhishek Nair During the team’s pre-season press conference, it was confirmed that Pathirana will miss the opening leg of the tournament due to a calf strain and is expected to return in mid-April. Rana’s injury has further complicated KKR’s pace bowling plans, with the team still evaluating replacements.
Bravo supported the depth of India’s fast bowling.
KKR mentor despite setbacks Dwayne Bravo struck an optimistic tone, highlighting India’s growing pool of fast bowlers.Bravo said, “In any tournament with any team, once you lose some key bowling options, those are the things you plan for, but also those things you have to accept. The good thing about Indian cricket, especially at the moment, is that it has a lot of depth.”“So there are some guys, as the coach mentioned, that we’re definitely looking to fill that spot – like Imran Malik. These guys are also players who have represented the national team at some point and played cricket as well. IPL First they are young, passionate talents. So, for me personally, I am happy to work with this group of fast bowlers.A strong spin attack provides balance.While the pace attack faces challenges, Bravo expressed strong faith in KKR’s spin department, led by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakraborty.“We have the best spin attack in the entire competition, so from a bowling point of view, I think we will be fine. Also, I can’t forget Vibhu – what a great season last year. He has been the leader of the attack in the last two seasons as well. So, yes, we have lost some key players, but I feel comfortable. [knowing that] We have what it takes to turn these guys around,” Bravo said confidently.KKR also have additional pace options in Akash Deep and Karthik Tyagi, who give them flexibility despite injuries.
KKR Preliminary IPL 2026 Schedule
KKR will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 29 against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium.Their upcoming fixtures include:vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – April 2 (Eden Gardens)vs Punjab Kings – April 6 (Eden Gardens)vs Lucknow Supergiants – April 9 (Eden Gardens)
