Abhishek Nair Sends Strong Message to Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2026

"The skill is there, the talent is gathered, and now it's time to win our fourth title," Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nair said to the team prior to the first practice at Eden Gardens. KKR, the IPL champions thrice, are set to begin the 2026 season on March 29, facing the five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

In a video posted by the KKR Night Club, Nair said, "I just want to give you all a message before the full team arrives. We've done a lot of preparation, and we've worked on our skills over the past few months. We've had a lot of discussions. We've had a lot of conversations. For me, what matters every year is how we prepare our minds. The skills are there; they won't change in the next 10 days. But what does change is our mindset. So, every moment spent on this field, with each other, with the coaches, and with each other, has one purpose."

He said, "We have only one thing to do. We have to win, we have to get that fourth star, and before our bodies arrive for the first match on the 29th, we will do everything possible to prepare our minds. We prepare here, we use this time to talk to each other, communicate, and become stronger as a group. So we're ready for anything. Have fun."

Nair also used the occasion to welcome some new faces to the KKR team, starting with assistant coach Shane Watson and fielding coach Dishant Yagnik. He said, "Friends, a formal welcome to all of you. Some new people have joined the team, so I think I should start by introducing them. Everyone knows Shane Watson as a player, but I know him as someone who has played under his leadership."

He added, "Watto (Shane Watson), I'm really happy to have you with us. I think you've been a great addition to the team, even in this short time I've only interacted with you. Take advantage of his experience; you'll learn a lot. We've had some great coaches before, but I'm sure Shane Watson will be a huge asset to us. So, Watto, welcome to the KKR family."

He said, "I often leave out some names, but I think the other new member of our family is Mr. Dishant Yagnik, who is full of energy. Many of you might know him from domestic cricket, but I am sure his energy, his love and his passion will be of great help to us. So, welcome, Yagi. We also have (Manvinder) Bisla and Biju (George) with us, who are our scouting heads and part of the scouting team. They are here to help us in this preparation phase."