Cricket – KKR turn to Saurabh Dubey after Akash Deep injury setback

Cricket – Kolkata Knight Riders are preparing to bring in left-arm fast bowler Saurabh Dubey as a replacement for the injured Akash Deep ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 campaign. The move was confirmed by the franchise leadership during an intra-squad match held in Kolkata as the team finalises its combination for the upcoming season.

Replacement decision taken after internal trials

The franchise had been actively assessing multiple bowling options following concerns over injuries within their pace unit. Several domestic bowlers were invited to participate in trials, including experienced names and emerging talents. After closely monitoring performances in practice games and training sessions, the team management identified Dubey as the most suitable option.

According to team officials, the coaching staff played a key role in evaluating players during these sessions. Dubey’s ability to generate bounce and his left-arm angle reportedly impressed the selectors, prompting them to recommend his inclusion as a replacement.

Dubey’s career and recent form

The 28-year-old pacer from Vidarbha has had limited exposure at the top level, with only a handful of T20 appearances to his name and no wickets recorded in those outings. He has also spent a significant period away from senior competitive cricket.

However, Dubey showed encouraging signs during the Vidarbha Pro T20 League, where he managed to pick up five wickets in six matches before his campaign was interrupted by injury. His earlier achievement as the leading wicket-taker in the 2019 ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup remains a highlight of his career. He has also gained experience as a net bowler with Mumbai Indians, which has helped him stay connected with high-level cricket environments.

Injury concerns continue to affect squad balance

KKR’s decision comes amid a growing list of injury concerns within their squad. Akash Deep has been ruled out after failing to recover from a lower back stress injury. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, and his full recovery is expected to take several months.

There are also doubts over the availability of young pacer Harshit Rana, who may miss a significant portion of the tournament due to fitness issues. These setbacks have forced the team to rethink its bowling resources ahead of the season opener.

Waiting on Pathirana’s return

The franchise is also monitoring the recovery of Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who is yet to join the squad after sustaining an injury during the ICC T20 World Cup. Team officials have indicated that they are in regular communication with both the player and Sri Lanka Cricket to ensure his recovery is managed carefully.

While there is optimism that Pathirana could become available by mid-April, the team is cautious about rushing his return and is prioritising his long-term fitness.

Pace attack faces early-season challenge

With several key bowlers unavailable or uncertain, KKR’s pace department appears relatively thin ahead of their opening match. The current group includes a mix of international and domestic players such as Blessing Muzarabani, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi and Umran Malik, along with all-rounder Cameron Green who can contribute with the ball.

The absence of Mustafizur Rahman, who is no longer part of the squad, further adds to the challenge. As a result, the team management is focusing on building depth and ensuring they have enough options to navigate the early stages of the tournament.

As the season approaches, KKR will be hoping that their injury concerns ease and that the new additions, including Dubey, can step up to strengthen their campaign.