Former CSK player Shane Watson is all set to join Kolkata Knight Riders as their assistant coach ahead of IPL 2026. The ex-Australian all-rounder previously served with Delhi Capitals with Ricky Ponting now he will be making his return to coaching after three years break.
After Watson was appointed he expressed that he is eagerness to work with the franchise and win another title. “It’s a great honour to be part of a franchise as iconic as Kolkata Knight Riders. 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.” as quoted by Sportstar
Watson has represented Australia in 190 ODIs, 59 Tests and 58 T20Is and now he will be working closely with KKR’s newly appointed head coach Abhishek Nayar. Kolkata Knight Riders has already won the Indian Premier League three times and now the franchise will be looking forward to make a solid comeback in the league with dynamic coaching staff. Dwayne Bravo will also play a crucial role as the team mentor in the upcoming season.
Watson had a stellar IPL career, from 2007-2015 he was a part of the Rajasthan Royals. He then joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2016 and stayed there till 2017. In 2018, Watson joined Chennai Super Kings and played till 2021 after which he announced his retirement.