IPL 2025: 5 Released KKR players who could trigger bidding wars between CSK and DC at mega auction

Kolkata Knight Riders have retained six players in the form of Rinku Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana and Ramandeep Singh. The franchises has utilised 57 crore out of their allotted 120 crore purse in retaining their key players. They will enter the auction with 63 crore in their kitty. Rinku Singh became the most expensive player as he was retained for 13 crore.

On the other hand, franchises such as Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals, who have 65 crore each left as they enter the IPL 2025 auction, might try scouting some KKR talents. Though the Kolkata-based franchise has made some bold releases, their core group has remained intact. CSK and DC, who had a miserable outing last season, might aim to rope in some players who were part of the defending champions’ team.

Here are five KKR players who could trigger a bidding war between CSK and DC:

5. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

KKR had signed Gurbaz for 50 Lakh ahead of IPL 2024. He sat out for almost all games but played the Qualifier 1 and the Finals as Phil Salt retracted to England for the T20 World Cup 2024. In two games, he scored 62 runs at an average of 31 and a strike rate of 134.78. He played a responsible knock of 39 off 32 laced with five boundaries and two maximums in the finale against SRH, which played a part in KKR's third title.

Gurbaz has always been vocal about his love for CSK's legendary MS Dhoni. He has also said that he looked up to the veteran as an inspiration. CSK might want that stability in their batting order if they are looking ahead of Ajinkya Rahane. On the other hand, after Rishabh Pant’s exit, DC are also on the lookout for a full-fledged wicketkeeper-batter, and may opt to go for someone like Gurbaz.