IPL 2026: Finn Allen admits getting dropped was a 'Good' Thing amid Stellar KKR Form

Kolkata Knight Riders opener Finn Allen has scripted a remarkable turnaround in IPL 2026, transforming from a struggling starter to a match-winning aggressor after being dropped mid-season.

In the opening phase of the tournament in April, Allen managed just 81 runs across five innings. Promising starts of 37 off 17 against Mumbai Indians and 28 off 7 versus Sunrisers Hyderabad were followed by disappointing scores of 9, 6, and 1.

The self-admitted pressure led to a dip in form, contributing to KKR's early winless streak. He was subsequently dropped for three matches, replaced by compatriot Tim Seifert as the team sought fresh combinations.

Allen's comeback in May has been nothing short of sensational. In four innings, he has amassed 242 runs at a blistering strike rate exceeding 220. Key highlights include 29 off 13 against SRH, a maiden IPL century - 100 off 47 balls* (featuring 10 sixes) in a chase of 143 against Delhi Capitals - 18 off 8 versus RCB, and a destructive 93 off 35 (10 sixes, 4 fours, SR 265.71) against Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens. These knocks, laced with record-equalling six-hitting, have kept KKR's playoff hopes alive.

The 27-year-old credited the break for helping him shed self-imposed pressure and rediscover joy in batting. His resurgence has emerged as a bright spot in KKR's campaign, reaffirming his status as one of T20 cricket's most feared destroyers.

During the Knights Golf event in Kolkata on Thursday, Allen admitted that getting dropped from the side helped him to regain focus and control. Although the Kiwi doesn't like being dropped, it worked as a blessing in disguise for him this season.

"I think probably at the start of the tournament, I probably put a little bit too much pressure on myself. And then having a bit of a break away from the game, you get a chance to sit back and reflect and sort of have a different lens on how you approach playing," Allen said.

"I think it always sucks to be dropped, but it was probably a really good thing for me. Yeah, I think it just helped me be a bit more free and enjoy, or get back to enjoying batting rather than thinking too much, I guess," he added.