IPL 2025: Auction: From Mohammad Shami to Mukesh Kumar, Five Bengal Players KKR Can Target in IPL Mega Auction

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With the IPL 2025 auction around the corner, Kolkata Knight Riders have some key gaps to address, particularly in their top-order batting and fast-bowling departments.

Retaining six players – Rinku Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, and Ramandeep Singh – the defending champions now require experienced Indian players who can add depth and consistency.

Targeting Bengal players could be a strategic move for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025, offering both local support and team depth. These players have developed their talents on the same pitch that KKR can call home, and signing them can boost fan engagement.

Considering the talent within the Bengal circuit, KKR could potentially target several standout players. Let’s have a look at the five Bengal-based players that KKR cant target for IPL 2025.

1. Abhimanyu Easwaran

Abhimanyu Easwaran, though yet to make an IPL appearance, has impressed in domestic T20s with a solid average of 37.53 and a strike rate of 128.59. A composed batsman, Easwaran could provide KKR with much-needed stability in the top order, especially as a backup to the current lineup. His ability to pace an innings at the start of the innings could complement KKR’s power hitters, filling a gap for an anchor player who can bat around others.

2. Mohammad Shami

A potential key target for KKR, Mohammad Shami’s inclusion would bring experience and proven skills in the powerplay and death overs. Despite missing the 2024 IPL due to injury, Shami topped the IPL 2023 wicket-takers list with 28 wickets, consistently hitting 20 wickets-plus figures in each edition. Known for his lethal swing and precision, Shami’s addition would significantly strengthen KKR’s fast-bowling department and offer a reliable new-ball option alongside Harshit Rana.

3. Mukesh Kumar

Right-arm pacer Mukesh Kumar had an IPL to remember last season, finishing with 17 wickets in 10 matches for Delhi Capitals. Yet he was released, and KKR should target him to fulfil the role of a specialised pacer. Known for his accuracy and ability to maintain control under pressure, Mukesh could bring balance to the KKR lineup, especially in the middle overs. He has been effective in the national team colours as well, taking 20 wickets in 17 T20I matches.

4. Shahbaz Ahmed

As a left-arm all-rounder, Shahbaz Ahmed’s versatility could greatly benefit KKR. With a respectable IPL strike rate of 129.52, Shahbaz has shown he can contribute crucial runs lower down the order. His left-arm spin is also an asset, with seven wickets in IPL 2024, providing an alternative to Sunil Narine and giving KKR strategic flexibility in matchups. Released by RCB, Shahbaz’s dual role makes him an attractive option for the Kolkata-based franchise.

5. Akash Deep

Another Bengal-based pacer, Akash Deep has demonstrated promising skills in his recent performances in domestic cricket. Although relatively expensive, his raw pace and aggression make him an option worth developing. He was barely given a chance by RCB in IPL, playing just one match in 2024, but KKR may just be the perfect place for him to evolve into an effective third or fourth seamer, offering his team pace support during long tournament stretches.