IPL 2026: KKR annnounces Navdeep Saini as Harshit Rana replacement; Khejroliya joins GT in place of Prithviraj

Kolkata Knight Riders has confirmed pacer Navdeep Saini as its replacement for India quick Harshit Rana, while Gujarat Titans has annouced that left-arm seamer Kulwant Khejroliya will replace Prithviraj Yarra.

Saini will join KKR Rs. 75 lakh, while Khejroliya joins up with GT for Rs. 30 lakh.

Harshit will miss the tournament as he recovers from surgery on a knee injury he suffered prior to the T20 World Cup. Saini, his Delhi teammate in domestic cricket, was one of a number of bowlers called for trials in the last week.

“When I came to know about it last night, I didn’t know how to react. I have been working hard and manifested it. It’s a revival for me as I have gone through ups and downs in the last two-three years,” said Saini.

He has previously played for two IPL franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals, taking 23 wickets in 32 matches at an average of 42.34 and economy of 8.88. He has also represented India in all three formats (two Tests, eight ODIs, and 11 T20Is), most recently playing in July 2021.

Khejroliya, meanwhile, played one match for GT in 2025, having previously represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians. His overall IPL record is six wickets in eight matches at an average of 41 at an economy of 10.61.

GT has not specified a reason for Prithviraj’s absence.

Published on Mar 25, 2026