Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Abhishek Nayar to lead the coaching unit; mentor Dwayne Bravo, assistant coach Shane Watson, bowling coach Tim Southee and power coach Andre Russell also included in the support staff.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have appointed former wicketkeeper-batter Dishant Yagnik as their new fielding coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The franchise announced the appointment on Wednesday, stating that Yagnik will strengthen the team with his experience and skills in the upcoming edition of the league.
In an official statement, KKR said that the team will enter IPL 2026 with a refreshed and revamped support staff. The coaching unit will be led by Abhishek Nayar, who will take charge of guiding the team’s overall preparation and strategy. According to the franchise, joining KKR marks a new and exciting chapter in Yagnik’s coaching career, and his inclusion is expected to add more depth to the team’s fielding set-up.
KKR management believes that fielding has become an increasingly important factor in T20 cricket and can often be the deciding element in close matches. With that in mind, the franchise has brought in Yagnik to ensure the team maintains high fielding standards and improves further in this department.
The support staff for IPL 2026 features several well-known names from international cricket. Dwayne Bravo has been appointed as the team’s mentor and is expected to provide valuable guidance, motivation, and match-winning insights to the players. Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson will serve as the assistant coach, bringing his vast experience and tactical understanding to help improve player development and performance.
To strengthen the bowling unit, KKR have included New Zealand’s experienced pacer Tim Southee as the bowling coach. Southee’s international exposure and knowledge of fast bowling conditions are expected to benefit the franchise’s pace attack and help bowlers sharpen their skills.
In addition, star all-rounder Andre Russell has been added to the backroom team as the power coach. Known for his strength and explosive style, Russell’s role will focus on fitness, power-hitting preparation, and enhancing the players’ physical conditioning during the season.
IPL 2026 is scheduled to be held from March 26 to May 31. With the tournament approaching, KKR are aiming to enter the season fully prepared and well-structured. The addition of Dishant Yagnik and the new-look coaching unit is expected to help KKR build a stronger, more balanced squad and deliver improved performances in the league.