IPL 2026: Navdeep Saini Replaces Harshit Rana at KKR; Kulwant Khejroliya Joins Gujarat Titans. Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans have announced key squad changes before IPL 2026. Both teams replaced injured players to maintain balance in their squads. KKR signed Navdeep Saini as a replacement for Harshit Rana. Rana has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to injury concerns. This is a big setback for KKR’s Indian pace options.
Saini brings valuable IPL and international experience to the squad. He has played 32 IPL matches and taken 23 wickets so far. He has also represented India in all formats of the game. KKR signed Saini for ₹75 lakh. The management expects him to strengthen their bowling attack.
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KKR Looks to Stabilise Bowling Unit
KKR had concerns over their pace and depth before this announcement. Injuries have significantly affected their fast-bowling resources. Saini’s inclusion adds experience and pace to the lineup. He can bowl in powerplay overs with the new ball. He is also capable during the middle overs with aggressive lengths. Harshit Rana’s absence leaves a gap in domestic pace strength. Saini will aim to fill that role effectively this season.
Gujarat Titans Picked Kulwant Khejroliya
Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans also made a replacement signing. They picked Kulwant Khejroliya for Prithviraj Yarra. Prithviraj Yarra is unavailable due to an injury. GT acted quickly to bring in a suitable replacement option. Khejroliya is a left-arm fast bowler with IPL experience. He has taken 6 wickets in his IPL career so far. GT signed him for ₹30 lakh from the available player pool.
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Khejroliya adds a left-arm angle to the bowling unit. This variation can trouble batters with different release points. He has played for teams such as RCB, KKR, and Gujarat Titans. His familiarity with IPL conditions can help the team. Gujarat Titans will look to use him based on match situations. He can provide useful support to their main fast bowlers. Both teams followed IPL rules for replacement signings properly. Injuries have forced quick changes ahead of the new season. These replacements could play important roles during IPL 2026.