KKR refuse to give up on KL Rahul; big transfer on the card ahead of IPL 2026 auction

A big buzz has taken over the IPL world again, and this time it’s all about KL Rahul. Even though the final retention list came out on November 15, the talk around KL Rahul’s future refuses to die down.

The Indian wicketkeeper-batter is strongly expected to move from Delhi Capitals (DC) to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, and the excitement around this potential switch is only getting louder.

KKR refuse to give up on KL Rahul despite IPL 2026 Retentions announced

Rahul recently played the India–South Africa Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and many believe this could soon become his new IPL home ground. Reports suggest that, despite the retentions already being announced, the chances of Rahul joining KKR are still very much alive.

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As reported by a Revsportz journalist, Rohit Juglan, the Kolkata Knight Riders are still very much interested in KL Rahul, considering his multi-dimensional role and leadership experience. He revealed that one of the Delhi Capitals owners was not ready to release the right-handed batter, but sources say the discussions are not over yet.

The journalist revealed that the door has not been closed; the “move is still possible, as KKR are still pushing hard” to get Rahul on the board ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. A final call could be made within a week, and there is a very real possibility that Rahul might end up in the KKR squad.

KL Rahul shines for DC; KKR eyes him as their next captain

Rahul was one of the most expensive buys at the IPL 2025 auction, picked up by DC for a huge ₹14 crore. He lived up to the price tag by becoming their highest run-scorer, making 539 runs at an impressive strike rate of nearly 150. But even after a great start to the season, the Capitals failed to reach the IPL 2025 playoffs, which left many fans disappointed.

When the Delhi franchise signed Rahul at the mega auction, many thought Rahul would be given the captaincy at DC, but the team handed leadership to Axar Patel instead. On the other hand, over at KKR, Ajinkya Rahane led the side last season after Shreyas Iyer moved to Punjab Kings (PBKS).

If Rahul does join the Kolkata franchise, he could become their new captain and help guide a completely revamped setup. KKR have already made some big changes in their coaching staff. Abhishek Nayar has taken over as the new head coach, while Shane Watson joined the three-time champions as the assistant coach, and Tim Southee joined the team as the bowling coach.

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KL Rahul gears up for Guwahati Test

Currently, Rahul is gearing up for the second and final test between India and South Africa in Guwahati, starting on November 22. The Proteas side is currently leading the series 1-0. Rahul is also expected to lead in India in the upcoming ODI series due to Shubman Gill’s neck spasm.

Gill is also unlikely for the Guwahati Test. The Indian squad is currently training at the Eden Gardens, and they are expected to depart for Guwahati on Wednesday, November 19.