Before the IPL 2026 mini-auction, speculation about KL Rahul’s future with the Delhi Capitals was sparked by a cheeky comment on a podcast, which has put him at the center of IPL trade rumors once more.
The batter for the Delhi Capitals, who signed with the team for 14 crore prior to the 2025 Indian Premier League, was questioned about how often he changed teams during his IPL career. Rahul smiled and said, “I’m also not too far,” in response to the hosts’ comparison of his path to that of former Australia white-ball captain Aaron Finch, who famously played for nine different IPL teams.
Despite having a great first season with Delhi, the casual comment has since fueled rumors that Rahul would be open to another move before the following season.
Rahul silenced detractors who had questioned his strike rate in prior years by collecting 539 runs in 13 games, including a century and three fifties, making him one of Delhi’s best players in the 2025 Indian Premier League. The 32-year-old’s form was crucial to the Capitals finishing in the top four, but his remarks have supporters speculating about the possibility of another high-profile move.
Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly one of the teams considering a potential contract for the Indian opener. After selecting Ajinkya Rahane as captain, KKR had a dismal 2025 season and are reportedly looking for a more seasoned skipper. The rumors have been made more intriguing by Rahul’s past close collaboration with KKR assistant coach Abhishek Nayar.
A possible exchange, though, might be difficult. According to reports, KKR does not have a player of comparable value to offer in trade, and Delhi Capitals are unwilling to release its captain with ease. “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 The Times of India.
Nevertheless, Rahul’s remark and his history as one of the IPL’s most reliable players—having scored more than 500 runs in seven of the previous eight seasons—have made sure that the excitement around his future won’t go away.
