With less than 24 hours left for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction to begin in Jeddah, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up to address the gaps in their squad and strengthen their lineup.

With a remaining purse of Rs 51 crore, KKR will be looking for at least one marquee player who can bring experience, leadership and versatility. Among the many names in the auction pool, three stand out as top targets for KKR: Rishabh Pant, Jos Buttler and KL Rahul.

Here’s why these players could be crucial to the Knights’ resurgence in IPL 2025.

1. Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant’s release from the Delhi Capitals has shocked the cricket world. For KKR, the dynamic left-hander represents a golden opportunity to solve multiple challenges. Pant is known for his fearless batting and match-winning ability, particularly in high-pressure settings. With his penchant for playing bold shots and turning games around, Pant could provide the fireworks KKR needs in the middle-order.

Apart from his batting prowess, Pant’s wicket-keeping abilities make him a dual-purpose player, offering KKR flexibility in team composition. Furthermore, his leadership experience with Delhi Capitals positions him as a potential captaincy candidate after Shreyas Iyer’s release at the retention deadline.

Also Read: Delhi Capitals unlikely to use RTM on Rishabh Pant; Ready to strive after another Indian star as captain in IPL 2025 auction

2. Yes butler

England captain Jos Buttler has been released by Rajasthan Royals, making him one of the top picks in the auction. For KKR, Buttler offers the complete package: a proven match-winner, an experienced defender, a reliable wicket-keeper and a versatile batsman who can play both as an opener and a finisher.

Buttler’s ability to dominate the power play and his adaptability in building innings make him a vital asset. His inclusion would address KKR’s need for a reliable starting pair after Phil Salt’s release. Additionally, Buttler’s vast experience in global T20 leagues, including his role as England’s limited-overs captain, brings immense value as a potential captain. He could also serve as a mentor to younger players, providing them with guidance and stability.

3. KL Rahul

The release of KL Rahul from Lucknow Super Giants adds another prominent name to the auction pool. Known for his elegant strokeplay and consistent scoring, Rahul could be the anchor KKR’s batting lineup needs. While KKR’s middle-order has often lacked stability, Rahul’s ability to control the pace of his innings and adapt to various match situations makes him an ideal candidate to fill this void.

Also Read: KL Rahul will not return to Punjab Kings; RCB and two other teams their likely destination in IPL 2025 auction: Robin Uthappa

Beyond his batting, Rahul is an experienced leader, having captained Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants in previous IPL seasons. His presence in the KKR camp would bring calm and clarity to the team’s approach, especially in crucial moments. Pairing Rahul at the top of the order with Narine or in the middle order with his established finishers would create a formidable top and middle order capable of challenging any bowling attack.

The strategic adjustment for KKR

Historically, KKR has thrived on top players who can single-handedly change games. The trio of Pant, Buttler and Rahul fit this mold perfectly. While Pant could bring the X factor, Buttler brings reliability and Rahul ensures stability, traits that are essential for a title-winning campaign.

The presence of these top players would also complement KKR’s existing stars like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine and Shreyas Iyer. Also, since the Eden Gardens pitch favors stroke makers, players like Buttler and Rahul could thrive in home conditions.

Future challenges

Acquiring three marquee players won’t be cheap, and KKR will have to manage their portfolio wisely to outbid offers from other franchises.

However, with Rs 51 crore at their disposal, KKR is well positioned to make aggressive bids for at least one of the three players.

The team will also need to balance its spending by targeting value-for-money players in later rounds of the auction.