Ahead of the upcoming IPL 2026 season, ex-India bowler Lakshmipathy Balaji has highlighted the crucial role of Kolkata Knight Riders’ top order in their quest for the title. Balaji pointed out the departure of key players post-2025, putting pressure on KKR’s batting lineup, especially on skipper Ajinkya Rahane, Cameron Green, and the overseas openers. He suggested a reorganized batting order to unleash KKR’s full potential, advocating for Rahane to bat no lower than number three and Green at number four, forming a formidable top four with Finn Allen and Tim Seifert.
Balaji stressed the urgency for KKR’s top order to hit form early in the season, emphasizing the void left by players like Phil Salt and Shreyas Iyer from the victorious 2024 squad. He highlighted the opportunity for players like Cameron Green, Finn Allen, and young talent Angkrish Raghuvanshi to step up and drive KKR’s momentum. The 19th edition of the IPL is set to kick off on March 28, with KKR facing Mumbai Indians in their second game at the Wankhede Stadium.
