Rachin Ravindra has left the Kolkata Knight Riders camp to prepare for New Zealand’s upcoming Test tour of England, the franchise confirmed on Friday ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against the Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens.
KKR are still mathematically in contention for a playoff spot but remain under pressure after an inconsistent campaign. Ravindra, meanwhile, did not feature in a single match for the franchise this season.
In a statement, KKR confirmed that the New Zealand all-rounder had returned home to begin preparations for the red-ball assignment.
“Rachin Ravindra has returned home to begin his red-ball preparations for New Zealand’s upcoming Test tour to England,” the franchise said.
His exit also highlights the growing challenge IPL teams face in the closing stages of the tournament, with several overseas players expected to leave early because of international commitments and bilateral series preparations.
Although Ravindra did not make the playing XI this season, he remained part of KKR’s squad plans as the franchise continued to shuffle combinations in search of consistency.
The three-time IPL champions have struggled to find momentum in IPL 2026 and currently sit eighth on the points table. KKR have won four of their 11 matches, lost six, while one fixture ended without a result. They currently have nine points with a Net Run Rate of -0.198.
With the playoff race entering a decisive phase, every remaining game has become crucial for the Kolkata-based side. Their upcoming fixture against the in-form Gujarat Titans carries significant importance as KKR look to keep their campaign alive.
While KKR focus on staying in contention, Ravindra will now shift his attention to New Zealand’s Test preparations for the England tour, which forms an important part of the team’s red-ball calendar this year.
Meanwhile, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced England’s squad for the opening Test against New Zealand at Lord’s, starting June 4, with three uncapped players earning maiden call-ups.
Wicketkeeper-batter James Rew, top-order batter Emilio Gay and fast bowler Sonny Baker were named in the 15-member squad for the series opener.
England’s squad for the first Test against New Zealand: Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.
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