KKR finished 8th in the IPL 2025 under the captaincy of Ajinkya Rahane.
In what could be a blockbuster move during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) trading window, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly interested in bringing in KL Rahul from Delhi Capitals (DC), and may even hand him the captaincy if the deal goes through.
KKR’s 2025 IPL campaign took a sharp downturn after Shreyas Iyer, who led them to the 2024 title, was released and subsequently picked up by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a massive ₹26.75 crore. Iyer went on to have an excellent season, guiding PBKS to the final, where they lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). In contrast, KKR crashed out in the group stage, finishing eighth.
KKR raised eyebrows with their decisions at the 2025 auction by using ₹23.75 crore on Venkatesh Iyer via the Right to Match (RTM) card and naming Ajinkya Rahane as captain. However, Rahane’s leadership was widely viewed as outdated, Venkatesh underperformed, and the team’s campaign faltered.
Now, heading into IPL 2026, the franchise is keen on a major reset. As part of this overhaul, KKR has already sacked head coach Chandrakant Pandit and bowling coach Bharat Arun.
According to a Times of India report, KL Rahul has emerged as a key target. The franchise is actively pursuing a trade with DC and is willing to make him the face of their leadership group.
“However, the deal is unlikely to work out as KKR don't have anybody they can trade to the Delhi Capitals in return,” a source told Times of India.
Rahul had an impressive IPL 2025 season, scoring 539 runs in 13 matches, including a century and three fifties. He struck 52 boundaries and 21 sixes. If KKR succeeds in acquiring him, Rahul could address several of their issues.
Firstly, neither Quinton de Kock nor Rahmanullah Gurbaz impressed as openers or wicketkeepers. Rahul’s arrival could shore up both departments. Secondly, Rahane’s captaincy came under fan criticism, and Rahul, with his previous IPL leadership experience, offers a far more stable and tested option.
Thirdly, as an Indian opener and wicketkeeper, Rahul’s inclusion would free up an overseas slot, giving KKR greater flexibility in their playing XI.
Additionally, KKR is reportedly considering offloading Venkatesh Iyer, who cost them ₹23.75 crore at the auction, possibly as part of a trade deal to secure Rahul, who was bought by DC for ₹14 crore. The trade, if it materializes, could significantly reshape KKR ahead of the 2026 season.