New Delhi: Abhishek Nayar has been appointed as the new head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The former Indian player replaces current head coach Chandrakant Pandit, who served in the role for three seasons, which included the 2024 title-winning season.
Kolkata Knight Riders took to their official X handle to make the announcement and welcome Nayar in the role. KKR CEO Venky Mysore wrote that Abhishek has been a vital part of the franchise since 2018, helping in shaping up the players both on the field and off the field. They are thrilled to welcome him.
What started in 2018 comes full circle today! ЁЯе║ЁЯЩМ pic.twitter.com/PmnyDFqTGX
тАФ KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 30, 2025
Pandit-KKR part ways
Pandit and the franchise parted ways earlier this year, following which KKR began its search for a new head coach. NayarтАЩs appointment continues the franchiseтАЩs recent practice of entrusting the role to an Indian coach. The 42-year-old Nayar is regarded among the players for his progressive coaching methods which has had him as an integral part of the teamтАЩs support staff for the last five years.
Apart from the 2025 IPL season, where he was involved with the Indian national team as an assistant coach and his role at KKR was limited, Nayar has been with the side through thick and thins.