3 Big Reasons Why KKR Should Target Prithvi Shaw in the IPL 2026 Auction

Talented opening batter Prithvi Shaw faced a new low after going unsold in the previous IPL auction. He had a difficult season with the Delhi Capitals (DC) in 2024 and was released, even though he was one of their top retentions after the 2021 season.

Since then, the explosive batter has been working hard to make a strong comeback. To his credit, he is on the right path. His performances are making headlines again, instead of controversies or mistakes.

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are one of the teams preparing for a major rebuild in the mega auction. After releasing players like Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the team clearly needs a new opener on their list.

On that note, let us look at three reasons why KKR should sign Prithvi Shaw at the IPL 2026 Auction.

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1. KKR Need an Aggressive Opener

KKR had great success when they used aggressive openers like Phil Salt and Sunil Narine in their 2024 title run. But Narine is not in the same form now, and players like Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz also failed to deliver. So, KKR must look for a fresh modern-day opener in the auction.

Ajinkya Rahane and Narine had decent strike rates in the powerplay, but they are not long-term options, nor do they match the firepower seen in other teams.

KKR have a big purse, but they also have many other key slots to fill. So choosing a strong but budget-friendly opener makes sense.

Prithvi Shaw, despite ups and downs, remains a powerful attacking batter who can take on any bowling attack. His IPL powerplay strike rate is 146.62, which rises to 150.34 outside it. In T20s in 2024, he scored at a strike rate of 153.39.

With support and confidence from the franchise, Shaw can easily become one of the most explosive openers in the league.

2. Prithvi Shaw Is Showing Strong Signs of a Comeback

Shaw has been in good form after moving to Maharashtra in domestic cricket. He bounced back strongly after a tough 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

He started his Ranji season with a brilliant double century against Chandigarh. Midway through the season, he has an average of 67.15 and a strike rate of 92.33.

Shaw also carried this form into white-ball cricket, scoring a quick 36-ball 66 as captain against Hyderabad.

After a long gap, Shaw finally looks confident, settled, and free from off-field distractions. This is the perfect time for a team like KKR to invest in his second rise because his talent has never been in doubt.

3. Nayar and Rahane Can Bring the Best Out of Him

For Shaw’s comeback story to work, he needs the right environment. KKR offer exactly that with coach Abhishek Nayar and captain Ajinkya Rahane.

Nayar has a strong record of rebuilding players mentally and technically. He played a huge role in reviving Dinesh Karthik’s and KL Rahul’s T20 careers.

Rahane is highly respected in Mumbai cricket and has seen Shaw grow from his early days. He has even guided Shaw in tough moments, as recalled by former fielding coach R. Sridhar.

Playing under Rahane’s leadership and Nayar’s mentorship will give Shaw discipline, focus, and the support needed to prove himself again.