Abhishek Nayar Returns to KKR as Assistant Coach Amid Exit from India Coaching Set-Up

Abhishek Nayar has rejoined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as an assistant coach, confirming his exit from the Indian national team’s coaching staff. He left his role as India’s batting coach after the team’s poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year.

India’s Batting Struggles Lead to Nayar’s Departure

India suffered a 3-1 series defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, despite starting strong with a win in Perth. The team’s batting unit collapsed in the remaining matches, sparking criticism of the coaching staff. The BCCI held a performance review and decided to move on from Nayar. Although the board has not officially announced the decision, Nayar’s return to KKR makes his departure evident.

Nayar Reunites with KKR After Successful Past Stint

Nayar returns to a familiar environment at KKR, where he previously worked during the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons. He played a key role in building the team’s Indian core alongside Gautam Gambhir, who now coaches the Indian national team. With Gambhir unavailable due to national duties, KKR brought back Nayar to maintain continuity and strengthen their coaching setup.

Chandrakant Pandit continues to serve as the head coach, while Nayar will focus on developing the batting unit.

BCCI Starts Search for New Batting Coach

With Nayar stepping down, the BCCI has begun its search for a new batting coach. The board is considering Vikram Rathour, Wasim Jaffer, and Hrishikesh Kanitkar for the role. The Indian team will travel to Zimbabwe in May for a five-match T20I series, and the BCCI wants to appoint a new coach before the tour begins.

KKR Welcomes Nayar Back

KKR officially announced Nayar’s return on social media, posting a photo of him at Eden Gardens. CEO Venky Mysore praised Nayar, saying, “Abhishek has been a key part of our system. He understands our culture and connects well with the players. We’re excited to have him back.”

KKR has won four of their seven matches in IPL 2025 so far. With Nayar back in the fold, the franchise hopes to push for its third IPL title this season.

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