Kolkata Knight Riders were in the midst of a transition period during last season’s IPL. Here we preview their chances for the 2021 season and consider whether KKR have been sufficiently reshaped to the extent that they can challenge at the very least for a playoff position if not a 3rd IPL title.
One of KKR’s primary issues last season was the balance of their batting line-up which they chopped and changed throughout the campaign as they searched for success.
The power hitting that both Russell and Narine offer to KKR is crucial but so too is the balance to the side with 2 all-rounders featuring in the top 7. With both players having disappointing 2020 campaigns, KKR moved quickly during the auction to secure back-up options in the form of Shakib Al-Hassan and Ben Cutting both players of significant experience in this league and T20 cricket in general.
One of KKR’s apparent strengths are the bowling options they have at their disposal particularly when Russell is fully fit and firing on all cylinders with Nitish Rana even able to chip in as 7th bowling option when conditions allow it.
Read a full break down of the stats and analysis of KKR's 2021 IPL Squad