Full list of Overseas Players Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Will Release Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) were among the few IPL franchises who opposed the idea of mega auctions, which typically occur every four to five years. During a meeting between the BCCI and IPL franchises on July 31, both teams expressed their concerns.

These franchises were reluctant to part with their star players who had delivered outstanding performances in IPL 2024. They favored the mini-auctions held before each IPL season, as these auctions allow teams to address gaps in their squads without dismantling their core.

SRH owner Kavya Maran voiced her concerns during the meeting, pointing out that franchises invest significant time and resources in developing their players. The mega auctions often force teams to break up their established core, requiring them to rebuild from scratch—a process she described as challenging.

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Kolkata Knight Riders’ owner Shahrukh Khan supported this viewpoint. Over the years, KKR has made substantial investments in players like Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, who have been integral to the team’s success. However, this time around, they might have to release one of these players, which would put them in competition with the other nine franchises to retain these legendary West Indies T20I players.

Full list of Overseas Players Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Will Release Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

As we look ahead to IPL 2025, reports suggest that each franchise will have a minimum budget of 100 crores for the mega auction. This leaves KKR with some tough decisions to make regarding their overseas players. Here’s a look at three overseas players KKR might release before the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Mitchell Starc

KKR spent a whopping 24.75 crores to secure the services of Australian pacer Mitchell Starc for IPL 2024. Starc delivered a solid performance, taking 17 wickets and playing a crucial role in helping KKR win their third IPL title. However, KKR might have to release him ahead of the mega auction to free up funds needed to rebuild the squad. While it’s a tough decision, they might attempt to buy him back at a lower price if possible.

Dushmantha Chameera

Sri Lankan pacer Dushmantha Chameera was another overseas player KKR acquired in the last auction. He only played one match, which was the high-scoring game against Punjab Kings where the Kings successfully chased down 262 runs. With concerns about his fitness and limited opportunities, KKR might consider releasing him ahead of the next season.

Jason Roy

With KKR having Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Phil Salt as wicketkeeper-batter options, Jason Roy’s position in the team is uncertain. Roy had pulled out of IPL 2024 due to personal reasons, which ultimately worked in KKR’s favor as Phil Salt, his replacement, turned out to be a stellar performer. Salt formed a strong partnership with Sunil Narine and scored over 400 runs in the season. Given these factors, KKR might release Jason Roy ahead of the 2025 mega auction.

In light of these possible changes, some IPL franchises have reportedly requested the BCCI to impose a two-year ban on players who withdraw from a season without a valid reason after being purchased at the auction. This request comes after players like Jason Roy and Wanindu Hasaranga withdrew from IPL 2024, citing personal reasons. As KKR prepares for the next season, these decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future.