Kolkata Knight Riders have announced the departure of head coach Chandrakant Pandit, marking the end of a two-year stint with the franchise. The decision comes after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, where KKR finished eighth on the points table, failing to qualify for the playoffs.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, the franchise said,
“Mr Chandrakant Pandit has decided to explore new opportunities and will not continue as head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders.”
KKR also took to social media to express their gratitude:
“We wish you the best for your future endeavours, Chandu Sir,” the franchise posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Pandit, a highly respected figure in Indian domestic cricket, was appointed as KKR’s head coach in August 2022, following his success with Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy. In IPL 2024, he led KKR to their third IPL title, reinforcing his credentials at the top level. However, the franchise could not replicate the same form in the following season.
Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, KKR managed just 5 wins from 14 matches in IPL 2025, finishing near the bottom of the standings. The underwhelming performance likely contributed to the change at the top.
The Knight Riders are now expected to begin their search for a new head coach ahead of the 2026 season, as they look to reset and rebuild after a turbulent year.
During Pandit’s three-year tenure with KKR, the franchise developed several Indian players, including Rinku Singh and Harshit Rana, while mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy made a successful return to international cricket last year.
The Knight Riders are also set to part ways with bowling coach Bharat Arun if reports are to be believed. Arun joined KKR in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Indian national team.
Reportedly, Arun has joined five-time champion Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as their bowling coach.
Last season, Abhishek Nayar also rejoined the Knight Riders as their assistant coach. Interestingly, Nayar has joined the UP Warriorz as their head coach for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025.
Pandit, meanwhile, is expected to remain in demand across the domestic and franchise circuit, given his proven track record of nurturing talent and delivering results.
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