Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders are getting ready for an exciting IPL 2026 season. After a disappointing title defense last year, the team is coming back with a fresh plan and an experienced captain leading them.
With Rinku Singh stepping up as vice-captain, adding energy and a fearless edge to the leadership group the team looks more balanced than ever. From their home ground at Eden Gardens to matches across different cities in India.
This season feels like a statement in the making as KKR aim to silence critics and reclaim their dominance. With passion running high and momentum building, every match promises drama, intensity, and a team ready to fight till the very last ball.
KKR Full Match Schedule & Venues
Kolkata Knight Riders start their season with a big away match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium. Soon after they come back home to Eden Gardens where they will play three matches in a row starting from April 2.
Kolkata knight riders (KKR) Full Schedule – IPL 2026
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Time (IST) |
| March 29 | Mumbai Indians | Mumbai | 7:30 PM |
| April 02 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| April 06 | Punjab Kings | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| April 09 | Lucknow Super Giants | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| April 14 | Chennai Super Kings | Chennai | 7:30 PM |
| April 17 | Gujarat Titans | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM |
| April 19 | Rajasthan Royals | Kolkata | 3:30 PM |
| April 26 | Lucknow Super Giants | Lucknow | 7:30 PM |
| May 03 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Hyderabad | 3:30 PM |
| May 08 | Delhi Capitals | Delhi | 7:30 PM |
| May 13 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Raipur | 7:30 PM |
| May 16 | Gujarat Titans | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| May 20 | Mumbai Indians | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| May 24 | Delhi Capitals | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
The captain’s vision: Ajinkya Rahane’s KKR
This season, all eyes are on Ajinkya Rahane, who is once again leading the team. He is known for staying calm under pressure and has asked the team to play fearless and positive cricket in 2026.
While he brings stability at the top, he is also guiding younger players like Rinku Singh who is known for his powerful finishing.
Ajinkya Rahane experience will be very important in close matches especially when the team is under pressure. His ability to stay composed helps the entire squad remain confident.
At the same time, players like Rinku Singh add energy and firepower making the batting lineup more dangerous. This balance between calm leadership and aggressive young talent could be a key factor in KKR’s success this season.