IPL 2026: This young U19 World Cup winner can be Akash Deep's replacement at KKR
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are buzzing after a practice match, with RS Ambrish emerging as a potential addition due to Akash Deep's fitness concerns for IPL 2026.
Last Updated: 04.53 PM, Mar 21, 2026
The buzz around the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp has amplified after their practice match yesterday, with RS Ambrish emerging as the frontrunner to join the squad. With reports suggesting that Akash Deep might be sidelined for IPL 2026 due to fitness issues, the KKR management is looking towards this young powerhouse as a tactical "replacement."
Who is RS Ambrish?
RS Ambrish is widely regarded as one of the most complete young all-rounders in the country. The Tamil Nadu all-rounder has already played in 2 first-class games for his state, where he not only bowled, but also debuted as an opener as well. Here is why the KKR scouts are so high on him.
He was an important member of the 2026 U19 World Cup-winning team. His capability to perform under pressure, including a 3/56 in the final of the U19 World Cup against England, has already earned him the "big match player" tag.
Ambrish finished the U19 World Cup as the joint-highest wicket-taker with 11 wickets, including a 4/29 against New Zealand in a crucial match, showcasing a lethal mixture of raw pace and clever variations.
While he is mostly known for his pace bowling, his recent 40 (24)* in the KKR practice match proves that he has got everything to contribute to the lower-middle order with the long handle as well. The left-handed batter has an acumen of doing well with the bat but will need more time to prove his worth as a proper all-rounder.
Standing at a tall frame and bowling right-arm medium-fast while batting left-handed, he has been touted as the next Hardik Pandya.
The KKR management, led by Abhishek Nayar and Dwayne Bravo, has a history of backing Indian domestic talent, which we have seen with the likes of Angkrish Raghuvanshi. Now, with Akash Deep being nearly ruled out and Harshit Rana already out of the tournament, KKR would look for someone who can deliver good pace and also tonk the ball with the bat whenever needed.