KL Rahul’s Move to KKR Nearly Finalized: 3 Players Kolkata Knight Riders May Release Ahead of IPL 2026

In a major pre-auction development, reports suggest that KL Rahul is set to join the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2026, likely marking the end of his stint with the Delhi Capitals after just one season. With the IPL trade window currently open, both franchises are reportedly in advanced discussions — with DC keen on bringing in Sanju Samson, and Rahul expected to move to Kolkata.

The biggest roster changes will be required to accommodate the India star if the deal goes through. Here are three possible moves KKR can consider to make Rahul fit into their squad next season.

1. Include KL Rahul, Release Two Overseas Wicketkeepers

KKR endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing eighth under Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership with only four wins. With KL Rahul’s potential arrival, the franchise could free up two overseas slots by parting ways with Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, both of whom had underwhelming seasons.

Rahul, being a proven leader and a reliable wicketkeeper-batter, offers KKR both flexibility and balance in the lineup.

IPL 2025 Performance Comparison:

Player Innings Runs Average Strike Rate 100/50

KL Rahul 13 539 53.90 149.72 1/4

Quinton de Kock 8 152 21.71 129.91 0/1

Rahmanullah Gurbaz 5 74 18.50 139.62 0/0

Releasing the two overseas keepers could give KKR room to strengthen other key areas while adding Rahul’s stability at the top.

2. Time to Say Goodbye to Andre Russell?

To finance the high-value acquisition of KL Rahul, KKR may have to make a tough call — moving on from Andre Russell.

Russell, now 37, has been one of KKR’s longest-serving and most impactful players, but his form has visibly dipped in recent seasons. With his 2025 stats showing decline in both batting and bowling, this might be the right time for KKR to rebuild for the future.

Andre Russell’s IPL Performance:

Criteria IPL 2025 IPL 2024 IPL 2023

Innings 10 9 14

Runs 167 222 227

Average 18.56 31.71 20.64

Strike Rate 163.73 185.00 145.51

Wickets 8 19 7

While Russell’s contributions can’t be overlooked, letting him go could free up significant funds for a long-term asset like Rahul.

3. Releasing Venkatesh Iyer to Free Up ₹23.75 Crore

Another logical move for KKR would be to release Venkatesh Iyer, who was signed for a massive ₹23.75 crore but failed to justify his price tag in IPL 2025.

The southpaw struggled with both form and consistency, neither scoring freely nor contributing with the ball. Releasing him could provide the franchise with the necessary budget flexibility to bring in KL Rahul.

Venkatesh Iyer in IPL 2025:

Criteria Data

Innings 7

Runs 142

Average 20.29

Strike Rate 139.22

100/50 0/1

Conclusion

If the trade between the Delhi Capitals and the Kolkata Knight Riders does go through, Rahul KL is set to change the KKR playing XI ahead of IPL 2026. Backed with experience, leadership, and genuine batting skill, Rahul could give the desperately needed some solidity and weight to their top order — provided KKR plays its cards right through the process of release and retention.