Tim Southee is a former New Zealand international cricketer and captain, known for his right-arm medium-fast bowling and capable lower-order batting. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially appointed former New Zealand pacer Tim Southee as their new bowling coach for IPL 2026.
Tim Southee replaces Bharat Arun
This appointment follows the earlier announcement of Shane Watson as the assistant coach. Southee, who played for KKR between 2021 and 2023, brings extensive international experience, having represented New Zealand in over 100 Tests, 161 ODIs, and 126 T20 Internationals, taking a total of 776 wickets. He replaces Bharat Arun, who has moved to the Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the 2026 season.
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KKR CEO Venky Mysore expressed confidence in Southee’s ability to shape the team’s bowling unit, highlighting his vast experience, technical expertise, leadership qualities, and calm approach as ideal for mentoring the team’s young bowlers. Southee himself stated that returning to KKR felt like coming home and he looks forward to working closely with the bowlers to help the team succeed in IPL 2026.
Coaching Team of KKR
The coaching team for KKR will now include head coach Abhishek Nayar, assistant coach Shane Watson, mentor Dwayne Bravo, and bowling coach Tim Southee, marking a significant revamp of their support staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.
