Rachin Ravindra has left the Kolkata Knight Riders camp to prepare for England’s upcoming Test tour of New Zealand, confirmed on Friday ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans at the Eden Gardens.
KKR are still mathematically in contention for the play-offs but remain under pressure after an inconsistent campaign. Meanwhile, Ravindra has not featured 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 red ball preparations for New Zealand’s upcoming Test tour of England,” the franchise said.
His exit also highlights the growing challenge for IPL teams in the final stages of the tournament, with several overseas players expected to leave early due to international commitments and bilateral preparations for the series.
Despite not making it into the playing XI this season, Ravindra remained a 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 are currently eighth in the points table. KKR won four of their 11 matches, lost six and one match ended in a draw. They currently have nine points with a Net Run Rate of -0.198.
Entering the crucial stage of the play-offs, every remaining match became crucial for the Kolkata-based club. Their upcoming match against the in-form Gujarat Titans holds considerable significance as KKR look to keep their campaign alive.
While KKR are focused on staying in contention, Ravindra will now shift his focus to New Zealand’s Test preparations for the England tour, which forms an important part of the team’s 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 on June 4, with three uncapped players earning their first call-ups.
Wicketkeeper-batsman James Rew, top batsman Emilio Gay and fast bowler Sonny Baker were named. in the 15-man squad to open the series.
England squad for 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.
IPL 2026 | IPL Schedule | IPL Points Table | IPL Player Stats | Purple Cap | Orange Cap | IPL Videos | Cricket News | Live Score
– The end
Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
15 May 2026 16:42 IST
