Akash Chopra on Replacement of Mustafizur Rahman in KKR: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the lookout for a new overseas bowler after parting ways with Mustafizur Rahman, and former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has suggested several strong options to fill the void ahead of IPL 2026.
KKR had signed the Bangladesh left-arm pacer for a hefty INR 9.20 crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction held last month. However, the franchise released Mustafizur just weeks later due to the growing political tensions between India and Bangladesh, forcing a sudden change in plans.
Akash Chopra on Replacement of Mustafizur Rahman in KKR
In a video shared on social media platform X, Aakash Chopra revealed a list of overseas players KKR could consider as Mustafizur Rahman’s replacement. Interestingly, Chopra highlighted former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Michael Bracewell as a valuable spin-bowling alternative.
Who could replace Fizz at #KKR? Name your pick in the comment 👇 #Aakashvani #IPL pic.twitter.com/N5LqH6omV2
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) January 6, 2026
Chopra noted that the New Zealand all-rounder could be a smart backup option, especially if Sunil Narine misses matches due to injury. Bracewell’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a versatile choice for KKR.
Apart from Bracewell, Chopra also named seven fast-bowling options from across the globe:
- Nathan Smith (New Zealand)
- Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)
- Sean Abbott (Australia)
- Riley Meredith (Australia)
- Richard Gleeson (England)
- Gus Atkinson (England)
- Alzarri Joseph (West Indies)
KKR’s Massive Squad Overhaul After Poor 2025 Season
The three-time IPL champions endured a disappointing campaign last season, finishing eighth on the points table under the captaincy of Ajinkya Rahane. Following the setback, KKR’s management decided to completely revamp the squad.
One of the biggest decisions was releasing their long-time match-winner Andre Russell, who was later appointed as the team’s Power Coach. KKR entered the mini-auction with the largest available purse and made some bold investments.
The franchise splurged INR 25.20 crore on Cameron Green and INR 18 crore on Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, two of the most expensive deals of the auction.
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Fresh Faces and Coaching Changes at KKR
KKR also reshaped their wicketkeeping department, replacing Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz with New Zealand duo Tim Seifert and Finn Allen.
The Knights strengthened their Indian core by signing promising talents such as Rahul Tripathi, Akash Deep, Kartik Tyagi, and Tejasvi Dahiya, adding depth and youth to the squad.
Major changes were also made behind the scenes. While Dwayne Bravo continues as mentor, Abhishek Nayar has taken over as head coach, replacing Chandrakant Pandit. Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has joined as assistant coach, and New Zealand veteran Tim Southee has been appointed as the bowling coach.
KKR Look Stronger on Paper for IPL 2026
With a revamped squad, new coaching staff, and multiple overseas replacement options under consideration, KKR appear far more balanced heading into IPL 2026. The final call on Mustafizur Rahman’s replacement could play a crucial role in shaping their campaign.
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