All-rounders:
Yusuf Pathan
Even when Yusuf Pathan made the switch from Rajasthan Royals, few would have expected the all-rounder to be as important to Kolkata Knight Riders as he has proved to be. He was always thought of as a big-hitter and someone who wasn't always consistent. While there was no question about his talent or his ability to take the game away in an instant, many doubted if he would ever be consistent enough to be an asset rather than a liability.
But then along came KKR and Yusuf Pathan was suddenly a transformed player. While he continued to remain true to his big-hitting instincts, he was far more consistent than anyone could have predicted.
He reined in when the situation called for and won numerous matches for his side. And that is why he is still an integral part of Gambhir's plans ahead of IPL 2017 even if he is 34.
Chris Woakes
With Andre Russell out of the picture, KKR knew that they had big shoes to fill. Gambhir admitted it himself ahead of the tournament when he said: " "Either we can see Russell's absence as a challenge or look at it as an opportunity in bold letters. I as an individual and KKR as a group are looking it as an opportunity."
One of those players who will look to make the most of that opportunity is England all-rounder Chris Woakes. One of KKR's big signings during the auction, the Englishman provides Gambhir with the option of playing a bowler or batsman light, due to his all-round abilities. While he is in many ways, more of a bowling all-rounder, he has shown that he can hit the bowlers to all corners of the ground if the need arises.
While his batting is likely to be a bonus, his bowling is what KKR will be counting on. Capable of swinging the new ball and nailing his yorkers at the death, he is the ideal replacement for Russell, the bowler as he provides them with flexibility.
