3 things KKR must do to return to winning ways

The three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have had a difficult start to their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign. They currently sit at the bottom of the points table, having suffered three defeats in four matches, while one game ended in a no result. The team has struggled to find consistency across departments, raising concerns about their overall balance and strategy.

KKR have not looked the same side since their title-winning campaign in 2024. Despite efforts to rebuild, they have failed to click as a unit, with both batting and bowling units underperforming. To turn things around, the franchise must make a few bold and tactical changes.

Here are the three things KKR must do to return to winning ways:

Bring Sunil Narine back as opener

One of the most effective moves KKR can consider is promoting Sunil Narine back to the top of the order. Narine has been a proven opener for the franchise since 2016 and enjoyed a stellar season in 2024, scoring 488 runs in 14 innings.

His aggressive approach in the powerplay has often given KKR flying starts. With a strike rate of around 167, Narine’s ability to dominate early overs is something KKR desperately need. Narine paired up with Finn Allen could provide the explosive start the team has been lacking this season.

Use Rinku Singh as designated finisher

Another key adjustment would be utilising Rinku Singh more effectively as a finisher. Currently, he has been batting too early, often around the 13th to 15th overs, which disrupts his natural game.

Rinku thrives under pressure in the death overs and has proven his finishing ability for both KKR and India. Sending him in around the 16th over would allow him to play with freedom and maximise his impact in the final stages of the innings.

Strengthen pace attack with Blessing Muzarabani

KKR’s bowling has been another major concern, particularly the lack of experience in their pace attack. While players like Kartik Tyagi, Umran Malik, Navdeep Saini, and Vaibhav Arora have potential, they have struggled to deliver consistently.

Introducing Blessing Muzarabani as a frontline pacer could add much-needed experience and variety. His height and bounce can trouble batters, even if he concedes runs at times. Rotating the young Indian pacers around him could help create a more balanced bowling unit.