IPL 2023: Kolkata Knight Riders SWOT Analysis

Kolkata Knight Riders concluded the mini-auction in December with Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan as their most expensive at INR 1.5 crore. They further bolstered the squad with the likes of David Wiese, Tamil Nadu keeper-batter N Jagadeesan, and Mandeep Singh among others in the bidding arena. Prior to the auction, the franchise also traded in Afghan keeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Lockie Ferguson and Shardul Thakur from Delhi Capitals.

On that note, let’s analyse Kolkata squad:

Strengths

With the inclusion of Gurbaz in the mix, KKR’s top-order seems formidable this season. The side also boasts of Jagadeesan, Litton Das, Nitish Rana among others who can grind hard at the top and give them the required runs. However, the previous seasons saw that the top-order did not quite live up to its true potential. In any case, this season could be a slightly different and in a good way for the side. Furthermore, the numerous all-rounders in the side with Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, David Wiese, and Shakib Al Hasan among others will certainly hand them a major boost in the competition.

Weaknesses

Last season the franchise chopped and changed their openers on numerous occasions. This also resulted in them not being able to get the desired results. Ultimately it saw them out of contention for a play-off spot. Furthermore, the side also deals with a massive blow considering the injury of Shreyas Iyer. While the batter is known to score vitals runs in the league, it remains to be seen how KKR deal with his exclusion.

Opportunities

Despite not having Iyer, the side has a decent mix of experienced and young talent. Furthermore, the players traded in for the upcoming season can be of massive help to compete for the title. With the current setup, KKR look formidable and assuming they capitalize on the strengths of the squad. The team has a terrific chance of bringing home a third title. The season will also be a great opportunity for stand-in skipper Nitish Rana to establish his leadership credentials.

Threats

Last season, the side depended on individual performances to get them to finish line. While in few matches it helped, a lot of other matches it turned sideways. This edition, with numerous top-draw cricketers in the squad, the side should be able to have a collective performance. But, it cannot be ruled out that they may replicate last year’s underwhelming run.

Kolkata Knight Riders updated squad: