KKR sign Navdeep Saini for injured Harshit Rana in IPL 2026, while Gujarat Titans add Kulwant Khejroliya as replacement. Key squad changes amid injuries could impact playoff race and team balance in the ongoing tournament.
The squad reshuffle continues in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season, as franchises scramble to cope with injury setbacks. Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have roped in Indian pacer Navdeep Saini as a replacement for the injured Harshit Rana, while Gujarat Titans (GT) have signed Kulwant Khejroliya in place of Prithviraj Yarra.
The mid-season changes highlight the physical toll of a demanding cricket calendar, with multiple players sidelined due to injuries. Rana was ruled out of the tournament after suffering a ligament strain in his right knee during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, leaving a significant gap in KKR’s bowling lineup.
KKR’s pace attack has already been weakened, with key bowlers Akash Deep and Matheesha Pathirana also unavailable due to injuries. In this context, the inclusion of Saini is seen as a strategic move to bolster their fast-bowling resources.
Saini, known for his raw pace and aggressive bowling style, brings valuable experience to the franchise. The right-arm pacer has taken 23 wickets in 32 IPL matches and has an equal tally of 23 wickets in international cricket for India. He joins KKR for a contract worth Rs 75 lakh, aiming to make an immediate impact in the high-pressure tournament.
Speaking after joining the team, Saini expressed his excitement and emotional connection to the franchise. He described the opportunity as a “revival” in his cricketing journey, especially after facing ups and downs over the past few years. The pacer emphasized that consistent hard work and belief played a key role in earning this chance.
“To be honest, I feel very good. There is a special feeling associated with Kolkata Knight Riders. When I got to know about this, I was overwhelmed. I believe this is a result of hard work and faith,” Saini said in a statement shared by the franchise.
He further added that despite challenges in his recent career, he remained committed to improving his game. “If I give another name to this opportunity, I can call it a revival. I never stopped working hard, even during difficult phases. That is why I am here today,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans have opted to bring in Kulwant Khejroliya as a replacement for Prithviraj Yarra. The left-arm pacer, who joins for Rs 30 lakh, has prior IPL experience and has represented multiple franchises, including KKR and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Khejroliya has picked up six wickets in his IPL career so far and is expected to add variety to GT’s bowling attack with his left-arm angle. His familiarity with different team environments could prove beneficial as Gujarat looks to maintain balance in their squad amid player injuries.
The IPL governing body confirmed both replacements in an official statement, reiterating that franchises are permitted to sign replacements in case of injury or unavailability of players.
As the tournament progresses, such mid-season changes could play a crucial role in shaping team performances and playoff prospects. For KKR, Saini’s inclusion could provide the much-needed pace boost, while GT will hope Khejroliya steps up effectively in his new stint.
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With the IPL entering a decisive phase, teams will be keen to adapt quickly and make the most of available resources, ensuring their campaigns remain on track despite setbacks.
