- Southee replaces Bharat Arun, who moves to LSG
- Brings experience from playing and coaching, including work with England
- Part of a revamped KKR coaching setup with Watson, Nayar, and Bravo
Former New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee has been appointed as Kolkata Knight Riders’ bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season. He replaces Bharat Arun, who has joined Lucknow Super Giants, and joins a revamped KKR coaching setup led by Abhishek Nayar, with Shane Watson as assistant coach and Dwayne Bravo continuing as mentor.
Southee, who played for KKR between 2021 and 2023 and claimed 31 IPL wickets in 43 matches, said returning to the franchise felt natural. He emphasized his aim to guide the young bowling unit and contribute to the team’s success.
The move comes amid several changes to KKR’s staff, including the exits of spin coach Carl Crowe and assistant coach Ottis Gibson, as the franchise prepares for IPL 2026.
