Harshit Rana ruled out, who's the alternative? THESE players in the race

After forming a new coaching setup, KKR did really well in the auction. Abhishek Naiyar and other support staff executed the mini-auction very well. In the auction, KKR found their new opening pair and also solved as many puzzles as possible. In the 2026 auction, the purple management was able to create a concrete balanced bowling, they picked Mustafizur Rahaman and Matheesha Pathirana with a high value and also added Kartik Tyagui and Bengal sensation Alash Deep but also the deep concerns start from here as BCCI banned Mustafizur Rahaman and Pathirana got injured during a World Cup again and now Harshit Rana has also added his name to the list, KKR’s question before the IPL has just become larger. KKR has been able to name Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman. But to get Harshit Rana and Pathriana’s replacement will be hard for the purple brigade.

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Here are the five key players who can be looked at as replacements

Akash Madhwal- Known for his raw pace, and ability to bowl in death has made him special. He has played for Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals and can be a good replacement for Harshit Rana.

Simarjeet Singh - Stock of the Delhi bowler had gone down recently but his ability to bowl hit the deck with pace made him special. Previously, he had enjoyed the dressing room vibes of Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings.

Raj Limbani - Coming from Baroda, Raj is one of the finest players with the ball and his ability to hammer the ball out of the park is also incredible, he is one of the promising young talents of India who has missed an opportunity in the Auction.

Kamlesh Nagarkoti - Key bowler of India’s U19 campaign of 2018, has recently been part of CSK management, his experience of staying in other IPL teams can help KKR.

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Chetan Sakariya- A very familiar name on the IPL stage. He has played for KKR in the past. After Mustafizur Rahman, KKR doesn't have any left-arm pacers. In this regard, Chetan Sakariya could be a good option. He can bring flexibility to the team. He has played 20 matches in the IPL. In domestic cricket, he has performed well for Saurashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy.