Kolkata Knight Riders have added fast bowler Navdeep Saini to their squad for IPL 2026. He joins the team as a replacement for Harshit Rana, who has been ruled out of the entire season due to injury.
For Saini, this move is an important opportunity to return to the IPL stage. The pacer described the chance as a revival moment in his career after a difficult period in the last few seasons.
KKR Add Saini as Fast Bowling Backup
Kolkata Knight Riders needed a replacement after Harshit Rana was ruled out of IPL 2026. The franchise decided to bring Navdeep Saini into the squad to strengthen their fast-bowling options.
Saini had already been training with the team before the start of the tournament. He was seen bowling regularly in the practice sessions and working with the squad in the nets.
Earlier, KKR were also dealing with the absence of Akash Deep. Saini had been considered as a possible replacement for him as well. However, the team eventually selected Subhash Dubey for that specific squad position.
With Rana unavailable for the season, Saini now gets a place in the squad as an experienced backup pacer.
Saini Calls the Opportunity a Revival
Navdeep Saini expressed happiness after receiving the call from Kolkata Knight Riders.
He said joining KKR felt special and described the franchise as having a strong identity and passionate fan base. According to him, the call from the team came last week, and it was a moment that brought both excitement and relief.
Saini explained that the last two to three years had been challenging for him. However, he remained patient and continued working hard on his game.
He believes that his consistent effort since his domestic debut helped him reach this opportunity again. He also shared a short message showing his excitement about joining the team.
“Aami KKR.”
Navdeep Saini IPL Career Overview
Navdeep Saini began his IPL journey with Delhi Capitals in 2018. Although he did not play any matches that season, he soon received a major opportunity with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
His breakthrough season came in 2019 when he played 13 matches and picked up 11 wickets. He remained part of the RCB squad for two more seasons.
After leaving RCB, Saini joined Rajasthan Royals but had limited opportunities. He played only four matches across two seasons with the franchise.
Despite going unsold in the most recent IPL auction, Saini now returns to the league with Kolkata Knight Riders.
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Navdeep Saini IPL Record
| Team / Season | Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi Capitals (2018) | 0 | 0 |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2019) | 13 | 11 |
| Rajasthan Royals (Two Seasons) | 4 | Not specified |
| Overall IPL Career | — | 23 wickets |
His performances during the RCB years also earned him a call-up to the Indian national team. Saini has represented India in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Gujarat Titans Also Make Squad Change
Another squad update came from Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026.
The team announced left-arm pacer Kulwant Khejroliya as a replacement for the injured Prithviraj Yarra.
Gujarat Titans will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Punjab Kings in Mullanpur on March 31. After that, they will return to Ahmedabad for their first home match against Rajasthan Royals on April 4.
Navdeep Saini’s arrival gives Kolkata Knight Riders additional depth in their pace attack. His experience in the league could be valuable if the team faces injuries or needs rotation in the bowling lineup.
For Saini, the opportunity offers a chance to restart his IPL journey and prove his form again. Training with a competitive squad and performing well in matches could help him rebuild momentum in his career.
