Not Chennai Super Kings! KL Rahul likely to join new franchise ahead of IPL 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul might join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season. The right-handed batter is likely to part ways with the Delhi Capitals if Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson’s transfer to the franchise materializes for the next edition.

Player trades and releases are common during the off-season. Teams are allowed to make trades up to a week before the auction and continue until a month before the next season’s start. Trades can be all-cash deals or player swaps, allowing franchises to adjust their squads based on tactical and financial needs.

KKR Face Leadership Void After Forgettable IPL 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders endured a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign. The team finished eighth despite entering the season as defending champions. Notably, the side struggled for consistency throughout the tournament.

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Rahane stepped down from captaincy for Mumbai in domestic cricket. The Kolkata team will have to appoint a new captain for the next season. They also need a wicketkeeper-batter after Quinton de Kock’s poor run, as he scored only 152 runs in eight matches.

The franchise is now expected to undergo a revamp under a new head coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Former all-rounder Abhishek Nayar has been appointed as the head coach.

KL Rahul Likely to Leave Delhi Capitals if Sanju Samson Joins

On his YouTube channel, RepSports journalist Rohit Juglan stated that if Sanju Samson’s move to the Delhi Capitals goes through, KL Rahul might consider joining another franchise. He also clarified that no official discussions have taken place so far.

"The most important thing is that if Sanju Samson’s move to Delhi, which is a strong possibility, goes through, then there’s a chance that KL Rahul might leave," Juglan stated.

"Now, where will KL Rahul go? Could he join KKR? It’s very much possible. I’m not denying that. However, I don’t have any confirmed information suggesting that discussions have started between Kolkata Knight Riders and KL Rahul," he added.

Another Franchise Also Interested in Rahul Besides KKR

Rohit Juglan mentioned that Rahul could be a perfect fit for the Kolkata Knight Riders. However, he also stated that another franchise might be interested in signing him. Juglan clarified that any transfer would need mutual agreement between Delhi Capitals and the player.

“If Abhishek Nair believes Rahul is the right man, then he’s the one who can lead KKR,” Juglan said. “He can captain the side, open the innings, and keep wickets, solving three key issues for the team. Rahul would fit into the KKR setup seamlessly."

"The question, however, is whether KKR are the only franchise on his radar or if others are also interested. I can confirm there’s at least one more team, though I won’t name them yet as there’s no confirmation. For any move to happen, KL Rahul and Delhi Capitals must agree, since he’s still under contract with them.”

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