Chandrakant Pandit’s KKR replacement finalized; former captain to join as Head Coach

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Chandrakant Pandit is under scrutiny following the team’s disappointing performances in the IPL 2025. The defending champions failed to live up to expectations under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy, which led to questions about Pandit’s future with the franchise.

Kolkata Knight Riders were knocked out of IPL 2025 after their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was called off due to rain. KKR have only one fixture left in the season. They will take on SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), who have also been ruled out of contention, in their last game.

Chandrakant Pandit's Future in Doubt After KKR’s IPL 2025 Struggles

Chandrakant Pandit's coaching style has reportedly caused friction within the KKR camp. Earlier in 2023, former international cricketer David Wiese described Pandit as "a very militant type of coach" on a podcast. The franchise retained Chandrakant Pandit but appointed Gautam Gambhir as team mentor in 2025.

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Gambhir created a more relaxed and confident environment, helping KKR secure the IPL 2024 championship. Senior players like Andre Russell and Sunil Narine openly praised the positive shift in team culture. However, KKR have been struggling in Gambhir's absence during the IPL 2025 season.

Eoin Morgan in Contention to Become Next Head Coach of Kolkata Knight Riders

Eoin Morgan is being considered as the next head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming IPL season, according to Anandabazar Patrika. The franchise is exploring the possibility of replacing Chandrakant Pandit following a disappointing 2025 campaign.

Morgan captained England to their first ODI World Cup title in 2019. He also played a pivotal role in KKR’s stunning comeback during IPL 2021, guiding the team from a near-elimination position to the final. He earned widespread praise, including from MS Dhoni, during that season.

The former KKR skipper is connected to the franchise and still calls the team "my team." His rapport with the management increases the possibility of his return in a coaching capacity.

Kolkata Knight Riders’ Title Defense Falters in IPL 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders have had an inconsistent IPL 2025 campaign, struggling to defend their title from last season. They managed just five victories in 13 matches, suffered six defeats, and had two games washed out.

Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been their best performer with the ball, taking 17 wickets at an average of 19.35 and an economy rate of 7. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane has scored 375 runs in 11 innings at an impressive average of 37.5 and a strike rate of 146.48, including three half-centuries.

KKR felt the impact of missing an experienced overseas fast bowler like Mitchell Starc. Starc was neither retained nor bought by KKR for the IPL 2025 season. Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora struggled with high economy rates.

KKR will conclude their season with a clash against SunRisers Hyderabad on Sunday, May 25, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. They will aim to finish their campaign on a positive note.

Also read: Asia Cup 2025- BCCI launches Operation Sindoor on PCB