Abhishek Nayar Named New Head Coach of Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2026

Abhishek Nayar named Kolkata Knight Riders head coach ahead of IPL 2026.

Abhishek Nayar has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season. He replaces Chandrakant Pandit, who stepped down following the 2025 campaign.

A long-serving member of the KKR setup, Nayar has worked in various roles including assistant coach and talent scout. He has been instrumental in nurturing young talents such as Rinku Singh and Harshit Rana. Known for his player-centric approach, Nayar has built a strong reputation for helping cricketers regain form and confidence during tough phases.

The former Mumbai all-rounder was part of KKR’s support staff under Gautam Gambhir during the franchise’s third IPL title win in 2024. He later joined Gambhir on India’s coaching staff before both were relieved of their duties after the team’s Champions Trophy triumph earlier this year.

Nayar returned to franchise cricket last season as head coach of the Women’s Premier League side UP Warriorz. Reports about his elevation at KKR surfaced earlier this week, and the franchise has now confirmed the move.

KKR CEO Venky Mysore praised Nayar’s long-term contribution to the team. “Abhishek has been a vital part of the Knight Riders setup since 2018, shaping our players both on and off the field. His understanding of the game and connection with players have been key to our growth. We’re thrilled to see him take over as Head Coach and lead KKR into its next chapter,” Mysore said.

Nayar’s appointment comes just ahead of the IPL 2026 retention window and player auction. KKR will be looking for a fresh start after finishing eighth last season, with five wins and seven losses.  in nurturing young talents such as Rinku Singh and Harshit Rana. Known for his player-centric approach, Nayar has built a strong reputation for helping cricketers regain form and confidence during tough phases.

The former Mumbai all-rounder was part of KKR’s support staff under Gautam Gambhir during the franchise’s third IPL title win in 2024. He later joined Gambhir on India’s coaching staff before both were relieved of their duties after the team’s Champions Trophy triumph earlier this year.

Nayar returned to franchise cricket last season as head coach of the Women’s Premier League side UP Warriorz. Reports about his elevation at KKR surfaced earlier this week, and the franchise has now confirmed the move.

KKR CEO Venky Mysore praised Nayar’s long-term contribution to the team. “Abhishek has been a vital part of the Knight Riders setup since 2018, shaping our players both on and off the field. His understanding of the game and connection with players have been key to our growth. We’re thrilled to see him take over as Head Coach and lead KKR into its next chapter,” Mysore said.

Nayar’s appointment comes just ahead of the IPL 2026 retention window and player auction. KKR will be looking for a fresh start after finishing eighth last season, with five wins and seven losses.