Overview:
He is regarded as one of the best T20 cricketers of his time and will help KKR to win another title in the league.
Former Australian player Shane Watson has become the assistant coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2026. He is regarded as one of the best T20 cricketers of his time and will help KKR to win another title in the league.
Watson has been a part of the IPL for a long time, having played for the Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural season in 2008. He was one of the reasons behind the Royals’ success in the first edition. He has also represented Chennai Super Kings and played a role in making them champions. The legendary all-rounder also donned RCB’s jersey in the tournament.
He was a match-winner for Australia across formats in international cricket. He was renowned for changing the game with the bat and ball and was a top contributor in Australia’s ICC Champions Trophy triumph in 2009, and also contributed to the World Cup-winning teams in 2007 and 2015.
“It is great to be a part of the Kolkata Knight Riders. I admire the passion of the Kolkata fans and the team’s commitment. I am looking forward to working closely with the group and helping players bring another trophy home,” he said.
KKR CEO Venky Mysore welcomed Watson to the franchise. “We welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family. His experience will add value to the team. He knows the T20 format, and we look forward to his contributions.”
With Watson’s arrival, the new head coach, Abhishek Nayar, will hope to win the fourth IPL crown.