IPL 2026: KKR appoint Shane Watson as assistant coach
What's the story
Former Australian cricketer Shane Watson has been appointed as the assistant coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The franchise announced the decision on Thursday, solidifying their coaching setup ahead of the upcoming season. Watson's extensive experience in international and franchise cricket is expected to add value to KKR's preparations.
Official statement
Venky Mysore welcomes Watson to the team
KKR's CEO Venky Mysore has welcomed Watson to the team, saying his expertise and leadership will be invaluable for the franchise. "We are thrilled to welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family," Mysore said. "His experience as a player and coach at the highest level will add immense value to our team culture and preparation."
Career highlights
Watson's playing career
Watson, 43, has had an illustrious cricketing career, featuring in 59 Tests, 190 ODIs, and 58 T20Is for Australia. One of the most prolific white-ball all-rounders, Watson has scored over 10,000 runs and recorded more than 290 wickets across formats. Watson was part of Australia's World Cup-winning teams in 2007 and 2015. He also enjoyed a successful IPL career from 2008 to 2020, playing in as many as 145 matches and scoring four centuries.
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Watson's credentials for CSK
Watson was an integral part of Chennai Super Kings's success between 2018 and 2020. He scored 1,200-plus runs at a strike rate of 136.38 (2 tons). His opening partnerships with Ambati Rayudu powered CSK. The former Aussie all-rounder also bowled some crucial spells, taking six wickets.
Personal remarks
Watson excited to join KKR
Watson, who has taken up coaching and mentorship roles in various global T20 leagues since his retirement, expressed his excitement about joining one of the most popular teams in the IPL. "It's a great honor to be part of a franchise as iconic as Kolkata Knight Riders," he said. "I've always admired the passion of KKR fans and the team's commitment to excellence."