Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set for another major coaching overhaul ahead of the IPL 2026 season. After officially appointing Shane Watson as assistant coach on November 13, the franchise is now preparing to bring in former New Zealand fast-bowler Tim Southee as their new bowling coach. The official announcement is expected soon.
Tim Southee to Replace Bharat Arun
Southee, who remains active in global franchise leagues, recently served as a bowling consultant for the England cricket team during their summer season. His experience includes working closely with young pacers while veteran James Anderson was busy with County commitments and The Hundred.
He will replace Bharat Arun, who has moved to the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for IPL 2026. At KKR, Southee will join a revamped coaching group featuring:
Abhishek Nayar – Head Coach
Shane Watson – Assistant Coach
Dwayne Bravo – Mentor
The trio will look to rebuild KKR’s bowling unit, which struggled last season as the franchise finished 7th on the points table.
LSG Management Holds High-Level Meeting to Finalise 2026 Retention Plans
Meanwhile, the Lucknow Super Giants have kicked off intense internal discussions to finalise their retention and trading strategy for the IPL 2026 mega season.
A crucial meeting was held in Kolkata, attended by:
Franchise owners
Director of Cricket Tom Moody
Head coach Justin Langer
Captain Rishabh Pant
Major Trades and Decisions Under Consideration
According to early reports:
Shardul Thakur has already been traded to Mumbai Indians.
LSG are now aggressively targeting a premium overseas all-rounder for IPL 2026.
The future of Ravi Bishnoi and Mayank Yadav, both priced at ₹11 crore, remains under discussion.
While Bishnoi is still seen as a strategic asset, sources indicate:
Mayank Yadav may be released
Even Bishnoi’s retention is not fully guaranteed
LSG are believed to be eyeing Cameron Green, expected to be one of the most in-demand all-rounders at the upcoming auction. The franchise is also exploring another high-impact all-rounder through trade, with details yet to emerge.
