Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are preparing to name Abhishek Nayar as their head coach for the IPL 2026 season. According to a report, Nayar has already been notified of the decision by the franchise, and an official announcement is expected soon. In July 2025, he was named the head coach of UP Warriorz in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Abhishek Nayar announced as IPL 2026 Head Coach
The former India all-rounder joined the KKR setup in 2018 as the coach of their Academy in Mumbai. During his time there, he developed a strong relationship with players like Rinku Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy.
Nayar was later appointed as the batting coach of KKR. He was part of the coaching staff that helped KKR win the IPL 2024. Soon after, Nayar became one of the assistant coaches for the Indian team. However, after India suffered a 1-3 defeat in Australia, he lost his job.
Earlier, in July 2025, Chandrakant Pandit left KKR as the head coach after the franchise ended up in eighth place on the points table.
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