With the start of Indian Premier League 2026 just two days away, teams are already dealing with a growing list of injuries and player unavailability, raising concerns over squad balance and combinations.
Navdeep Saini replaced the injured Harshit and joined KKR for 75 lakh, he had played 32 matches in the IPL and picked 23 wickets with an economy of 8.48 in his IPL career. KKR have shown faith in him for his domestic experience and pace as well. A pace option swapped for another, adding depth to their bowling attack. A timely boost to KKR’s bowling depth ahead of the season the pace attack now looks even more potent. He can quite comfortably clock in excess of 140 kmph.
He has played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals in the IPL. A big moment and responsibility as well, as Harshit was a go-to bowler for KKR over the past two seasons, along with Muzarabani and Green now Navdeep will boost the pace attack for KKR. While uncertainty looms over Matheesha Pathirana due to delays in receiving a No Objection Certificate from Sri Lanka Cricket.
KKR will start their campaign on March 29 against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium.
Gujarat Titans have picked Kulwant Khejroliya as injured Prithviraj Yarra’s replacement, he will join GT for 30 lakh. Kulwant Khejroliya is a left-arm medium-fast bowler, known for his domestic performances for Madhya Pradesh, who has played for several franchises including Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Gujarat Titans (GT). He has played 8 IPL matches previously and taken 6 wickets with a 10.62 economy rate. He is an experienced bowler in domestic cricket, having also played for GT last year. He will give a massive boost to GT, adding to the experience alongside campaigners like Rabada, Ishant, and Siraj.
Gujarat Titans will start their campaign on 31 March against Punjab Kings at the New International Stadium, Chandigarh.