Akash Deep Ajinkya Rahane for KKR. Image Credits: AFP
Indian pacer Akash Deep has been ruled out of IPL 2026 for KKR camp with just days left for the upcoming tournament. With Kolkata already struggling with injuries to fast bowlers, Akash Deep’s absence has stirred a hot chain of speculations online.
KKR will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 29 against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. However, the franchise will be without their two key pacers, Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana, both ruled out with injuries.
Akash Deep ruled out of IPL 2026, fans react
Cricbuzz has reported that Akash Deep has been ruled out of IPL 2026. He last played in the Ranji Trophy match between Jammu-Kashmir and Bengal and ever since then, he has not played competitive cricket.
"Unfortunately, he is out of the IPL, ruled out for the season," a KKR official told Cricbuzz. Akash was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2026 auction for INR 1 Crore at his base price.
It's important to note that KKR hasn’t reacted to Akash’s absence. Even during the pre-season press conference held on March 20, the coaching staff didn’t share any update on Akash Deep.
He is basically missing in action for now. However, the season is still a week away. As and when the tournament gets closer, KKR will definitely share a final update.
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Matheesha Pathirana to miss the start of IPL 2026
In a crucial update, KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar confirmed that Matheesha Pathirana will be unavailable for the first phase of IPL 2026 due to a calf strain.
The pacer is undergoing rehabilitation in Sri Lanka and is expected to be fit to play by mid-April. Also, Pathirana is a centrally contracted player, which means unless and until the Sri Lanka cricket board gives an NOC, the pacer cannot join KKR even if he is fit.
In Matheesha Pathirana’s absence, KKR will have to rely on Vaibhav Arora, Cameron Green and Blessing Muzarabani.
KKR to announce Harshit Rana’s replacement soon
In another huge blow, pacer Harshit Rana has also been ruled out of the entire IPL 2026 season due to a knee injury. During the press conference, Abhishek Nayar called Rana’s absence a "big blow".
“Firstly, it’s a big blow because Harshit has been an integral part of this team for the last few seasons. Having said that, we have looked at a few bowlers over the past few days. We are trying to evaluate, with the help of our leadership group, who fits in and who can play that role to the best of their abilities. The decision will be made soon, maybe in a couple of days," Nayar said.
However, Nayar confirmed that KKR will seek a replacement for Harshit Rana very soon. The franchise did scout a few potential candidates. But a final call will be taken in the next couple of days.
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