Abhishek Nayar has been appointed as Kolkata Knight Riders’ new head coach for IPL 2026, replacing Chandrakant Pandit.
Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed Abhishek Nayar as their new head coach for IPL 2026, replacing Chandrakant Pandit. The former India assistant coach was part of the national support staff that helped the team win the 2025 Champions Trophy.
KKR decided to part ways with Pandit after the team failed to reach the playoffs last season. Nayar rejoined the franchise midway through IPL 2025 as an assistant coach after completing his India stint. Having been associated with KKR since 2018, he has played a crucial role in developing several players and shaping the team’s culture.
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“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,” CEO Venky Mysore said in a statement.
Notably, Abhishek Nayar has previously mentored players like Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer while playing a key role in KKR’s setup since 2018. He headed the KKR academy and was part of the coaching group that guided the franchise to the IPL 2024 title.
Nayar also serves as head coach of UP Warriorz in the WPL, a role he assumed in July 2025. His immediate challenge includes planning strategies for UPW ahead of the WPL mega auction in November and shaping KKR’s approach for the IPL mini auction in December.
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