Kolkata Knight Riders announced the appointment of former Australian allrounder Shane Watson as its assistant coach for the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League.
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday (November 13, 2025) announced the appointment of former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson as its assistant coach for the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Watson represented Australia in 59 Tests, 190 ODIs and 58 T20Is, amassing over 10,000 international runs and taking more than 280 wickets across formats. Watson was an integral part of Australia’s 2007 and 2015 ICC World Cup-winning squads. He had a fine IPL career spanning 12 years (2008-2020), during which he featured in 145 matches and scored four centuries.
Following a successful career as an international cricketer, 44-year-old Watson has switched to coaching and mentoring roles in several top T20 leagues.
“It’s a great honour to be part of a franchise as iconic as KKR. 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,” said Watson.
Welcoming the Aussie to the franchise, KKR CEO Venky Mysore said, “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.”
Published – November 13, 2025 02:48 pm IST
