Calcutta: With the new IPL season just around the corner, Kolkata Knight Riders brought players, partners and fans together for an exciting evening at the third edition of Knights Unplugged 3.0, setting the stage for a promising campaign.
The event, held in Kolkata, was designed as a fan experience and offered fans a rare opportunity to interact closely with their favorite players. From entertainment to candid conversations, the evening offered a good balance of celebration and preparation as the franchise geared up for the 2026 TATA IPL season.
One of the most emotional moments of the evening was the tribute to one of the franchise’s greats. Former KKR all-rounder Andre Russell’s jersey was officially retired, recognizing his immense contribution to the team over the years. The announcement sparked a warm reaction from fans present at the venue. Russell will remain with the team this season and take on a new role as Power Coach.
The evening featured a lively mix of activities including full squad introductions, interactive sessions with players and staff and energetic performances that kept the audience captivated throughout. Fans got to see a different side of their cricket heroes, away from the intensity of the field.
A special mentality performance by Naman Anand gave the program a unique touch. His interactive performance, which involved players on stage, created a sense of surprise and excitement, making it one of the standout sections of the evening. It provided a refreshing break before the team’s leadership group returned to share their thoughts on the upcoming season.
Another highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the VIDA VX2 Plus KKR Limited Edition, which increased the excitement around the event and reflected the franchise’s growing partnerships and brand presence.
Speaking at the event, CEO Venky Mysore said that every new season brings with it new excitement and expectations. After spending time with the team and support staff, he noticed a strong energy and confidence within the group. He added that the team is looking forward to enjoying cricket and playing in front of their passionate home crowd at Eden Gardens and hopes to make the season memorable for the fans.
Captain Ajinkya Rahane expressed similar views and called it a privilege to lead such a talented team. He highlighted the team’s depth and ability to win games and stressed the importance of playing a fearless and positive style of cricket. Rahane also spoke about the unwavering support of the Kolkata fans and said that it inspires the team to take responsibility and deliver consistently.
Head coach Abhishek Nayar reflected on the experiences he had working with some of the most experienced personalities in the game. He described the locker room environment as special, with the strong leadership of the support staff being a key advantage. Nayar, who has played with many of them, said the journey feels even more meaningful, adding that the shared focus remains on taking the franchise to even greater heights.
The event also saw the unveiling of select team merchandise, highlighting the franchise’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its bond with fans. With initiatives like Knights Unplugged, KKR clearly aims to go beyond the game and create unforgettable experiences that bring fans closer to the team.
As the countdown to IPL 2026 begins, the evening served as a reminder of the deep connection between the Knight Riders and their fans – a relationship that the team aims to continue on the field in the coming weeks.
