“Sacked In Hostile Manner”: Abhishek Nayar Returns To KKR After Ouster From Indian Team

Despite being removed from India’s coaching staff post-Test debacle, Abhishek Nayar is welcomed back by Kolkata Knight Riders as speculation grows over his role and influence ahead of crucial IPL ties.

New Delhi, April 20, 2025:
In a dramatic turn of events, Abhishek Nayar, recently sacked as India’s assistant coach, has made a swift comeback into the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp. His exact designation remains officially unconfirmed, although the franchise initially posted—then deleted—a tweet referring to him as “assistant coach”.

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Nayar’s return comes amid reports that his termination from the Indian setup was executed in a “hostile manner”, despite his positive contributions, particularly in player development and mentoring.

“Welcome back home, Abhishek Nayar,” read KKR’s post on X, sparking immediate curiosity in cricketing circles.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had recently overhauled the national coaching staff after India’s dismal red-ball performances—including a shocking 0-3 home whitewash by New Zealand and a 1-3 Test series defeat in Australia. Along with Nayar, fielding coach T Dilip and conditioning coach Soham Desai were also removed.

Despite his exit from the national setup, Nayar’s rapport with KKR remains unshaken. Sources in the IPL have confirmed that KKR had been closely monitoring developments, anticipating his return. “Everyone in Indian cricket knew that once the BCCI let go of him, KKR would take him back,” a source said.

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Nayar’s Deep KKR Roots

Nayar has been a key strategist and mentor at KKR for years, even reportedly having more influence than former head coach Chandrakant Pandit at one point. His contribution to establishing the KKR Academy in Mumbai and helping groom talents like Shubman Gill and Venkatesh Iyer has made him a pillar in the franchise.

He also played a pivotal role in player scouting, auctions, and recruitment, often serving as the bridge between the cricketing team and KKR CEO Venky Mysore.

With KKR set to take on Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on Monday, Nayar has already resumed his duties—observed interacting with players and involved in strategy sessions.

Connection with Gautam Gambhir

Nayar’s strong relationship with Gautam Gambhir, who is now the head coach of the Indian national team, remains a key subplot in his journey. Prior to Gambhir’s return to KKR, Nayar was one of the primary decision-makers in the cricketing setup.

His return to KKR following his BCCI exit underscores his value within franchise cricket, even as BCCI remains tight-lipped about the reasons behind his removal. No official statement has yet been released by the board regarding his termination.

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Abhishek Nayar, KKR, IPL 2025, Indian Cricket Team, BCCI, Gautam Gambhir, KKR Assistant Coach, Abhishek Nayar Sacked, Test Series Defeat, Cricket News