Preparations for IPL 2026 have begun and the rumours of trade have doubled the fun of the fans, it is reported that three-time champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is eager to bring Delhi Capitals (DC) star batsman KL Rahul to their team.
Yes, this dashing batsman from Karnataka, who was the highest run-scorer for DC last season, is now on KKR’s radar.
IPL 2026: KKR’s master plan
According to Times of India, “KKR is keen on acquiring Rahul’s services through a trade ahead of IPL 2026.”
If this deal is confirmed, then it can prove to be a game-changer for KKR. Rahul can not only do wonders with the bat, but can also try his hand at captaincy and wicketkeeping. That is, three birds with one stone.
Rahul was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 14 crore in the mega auction after his old franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) released him.
In IPL 2025, Rahul smashed 539 runs in 13 innings and was DC’s top scorer.
But now the question is, will DC let go of their star so easily?
Why does KKR want Rahul?
KKR’s condition was not very good last season. They finished eighth in the points table by winning only 5 out of 14 matches.
After releasing Shreyas Iyer before the mega auction, Ajinkya Rahane was bought for Rs 1.50 crore and made the captain.
But there is a big gap in the team, the lack of a strong Indian wicketkeeper. KKR’s current wicketkeepers Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz could not do anything special last season.
In such a situation, Rahul, who is adept at both wicketkeeping and captaincy, can be the perfect choice for KKR.
Now the big question is whether Delhi Capitals will be ready to trade Rahul? Rahul was their most reliable batsman last season.
Even though he did not do wicketkeeping for DC, his keeping skills are not hidden from anyone.
If this trade happens, then it could be the biggest deal of IPL 2026.
