Nitish Rana Expresses Desire to Continue with KKR Amid Player Retention Uncertainty

Left-handed batter Nitish Rana has articulated his preference to remain with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This follows the Board of Control for Cricket in India‘s (BCCI) announcement of player retention rules ahead of the mega auction. Rana has been a significant contributor to the league, amassing a total of 2,636 runs across 107 matches, with 18 half-centuries to his name.

Rana joined KKR in IPL 2018 and even captained the team during the 2023 season when their regular captain was sidelined due to an injury. However, the defending IPL champions face a challenging decision-making process regarding player retention. With the allowance to retain a maximum of six players, including the Right to Match (RTM) options, Rana’s position could be vulnerable amidst a roster crowded with other match-winning talents.

In a recent interview with the Times of India, Rana openly stated his desire to continue playing for KKR. “I have been serving KKR for the past seven years,” he remarked. “It’s not in my hands if I will be retained; it’s up to KKR management to decide. I haven’t received any calls yet. I have scored runs for KKR every year, and if they consider me an asset, they will retain me. I want to play for KKR,” he asserted.

Rana, who moved from Delhi to Uttar Pradesh last year, is eager to reprise his role, possibly even as captain, if required. “I haven’t discussed this (on availabilities) with the coach or selectors yet. However, players like Rinku (Singh), Yash Dayal, and Dhruv Jurel won’t be available for initial matches, so we’ll see some new faces replacing those playing for the country. I am ready to take control of the team again. If the association feels I’m capable, I can take on the captaincy,” he added in the same interaction.

The uncertainty surrounding player retention has become a topic of interest for fans and analysts, as teams must make strategic decisions that will shape their squads for the upcoming season. With many strong players in contention for retention, KKR’s choice to use or spare their RTM cards, including decisions regarding key players like Sunil Narine and Andre Russell, is keenly awaited.