Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Thursday appointed former Team India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar as its new head coach.
Nayar`s appointment came after the departure of Chandrakant Pandit after a tenure of three seasons. The 42-year-old former cricketer has been associated with the Kolkata-based franchise since 2018, and since then, he has been one of the key members of the dressing room.
He is often viewed as someone who has a lot of influence among the players, and also when it came to team selection.
The move also came after a disappointing season in the concluded season this year. The side failed to defend their title under the captaincy of Ajinkya Rahane. KKR managed to secure victories in five out of the 14 matches and suffered losses in seven games. Following the campaign, the Knights ended up in the eighth position.
For about nine months, he was a part of Gautam Gambhir`s coaching set-up in the national team, but was sacked unceremoniously after India`s Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, with Sitanshu Kotak replacing him.
“Abhishek has been a vital part of the Knight Riders setup since 2018, shaping our players both on and off the field. His understanding of the game and connection with players have been key to our growth. We`re thrilled to see him take over as Head Coach and lead KKR into its next chapter,” said Venky Mysore, CEO, Kolkata Knight Riders.
What started in 2018 comes full circle today! 🥺🙌 pic.twitter.com/PmnyDFqTGX
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 30, 2025
Earlier, several groups of fans heaped praise on Rohit Sharma for appearing in a much fitter and slimmer look. Nayar has put in his efforts and has worked backstage with Team India`s veteran opening batsman. Other than Rohit, he has also worked in an individual capacity with KL Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, to name a few, apart from his own find Angkrish Raghuvanshi.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Knight Riders, as the team looks to build on its recent successes and prepare for the future. With a coach who understands the team`s long-term vision, KKR aims to continue its legacy of competitive and fearless cricket.
(With Agencies` Inputs)