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Three-time IPL champions Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed Australia legend as their assistant coach ahead of the next season.
Shane Watson has been previously associated with Delhi Capitals in a coaching role. (Picture Credit: KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders have announced the appointment of Shane Watson as the Assistant Coach for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026. The former Australian allrounder brings extensive international experience, leadership skills, and a comprehensive understanding of modern franchise cricket thanks to his associations with various leagues as player and coach.
One of the era’s most celebrated all-rounders, Watson represented Australia in 59 Tests, 190 ODIs, and 58 T20 Internationals, accumulating over 10,000 international runs and taking more than 280 wickets across formats. He was a key figure in Australia’s 2007 and 2015 ICC World Cup-winning squads and contributed significantly to numerous series victories worldwide. Watson also had a remarkable IPL career spanning 12 years (2008-2020), playing 145 matches and scoring four centuries.
“It’s a great honour to be part of a franchise as iconic as Kolkata Knight Riders. I’ve always admired the passion of KKR fans and the team’s commitment to excellence. I’m eager to work closely with the coaching group and players to help bring another title to Kolkata,” Watson said in a statement on Thursday.
After retiring from cricket, Watson successfully transitioned into coaching and mentorship roles within global T20 leagues.
Commenting on the announcement, Venky Mysore, CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders, stated: “We are thrilled to welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family. His experience as a player and coach at the highest level will add immense value to our team culture and preparation. His understanding of the T20 format is world-class, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field.”
Watson is the latest name to join KKR as the franchise continues to revamp their backroom staff. Earlier this year, Chandrakant Pandit, who was the head coach when they became the champions in 2024, stepped away following which Abhishek Nayar was appointed into the role.
KKR had a forgettable IPL 2025 as they finished eighth in the 10-team points table, failing to even qualify for the playoffs.
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital…Read More
Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital… Read More
November 13, 2025, 14:22 IST
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