"KKR is a better option for KL Rahul as captain" - Former RCB batter's big claim on DC star amid IPL 2026 trade rumors

Former Indian player Mohammad Kaif believes KL Rahul should move from the Delhi Capitals to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2026. Kaif has advised the wicketkeeper-batter to take the opportunity if presented.

The 33-year-old, who has plied his trade for multiple franchises in the IPL, featured for the Capitals this year after being bought for ₹14 crore. Nevertheless, there have been rumors that the right-handed batter could be released and the Knight Riders could buy him.

Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel 'Mohammad Kaif,' the 44-year-old opined that LSG was not a good team for the opening batter as a skipper, given the rift was visible between him and owner Sanjiv Goenka. Kaif said (29:44):

"If KL Rahul becomes KKR’s captain, he will lead them well. He had captained Lucknow before. If there is rift between any player and owner, it reflects on the field. So, there was a lack of understanding in LSG. That’s why he left Lucknow and came to Delhi. He had established himself in Lucknow, hitting 500 runs, so why would he have wanted to leave? But I feel KKR is a better option for KL Rahul as captain because they have an excellent team."

Kaif added that a move to KKR will benefit Rahul, as he will get to bat on a good pitch at the Eden Gardens, allowing the keeper-batter to play freely.

"If you look at the players they have - Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz. If we compare with Lucknow, KKR have proper match-winners. The template is set over there about who will bat where. I would advise KL Rahul to not let go if he is given the opportunity, he should grab it with both hands. The pitch at Eden Gardens also plays well; hence, it will benefit his batting. He can also tick the box of having won an IPL as captain. KKR will be a good option for him," Kaid added.

The retention list of all 10 franchises will be announced on November 15.

---

KL Rahul's record as captain in IPL

KL Rahul has led in 64 IPL matches. (Credits: Getty)

Apart from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the 33-year-old has also captained the Punjab Kings (PBKS). Having captained in 64 IPL matches from 2020 to 2024, he has won and lost 31 games each.

The Knight Riders could be looking for a new captain, as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side couldn't even make it past the group stage in IPL 2025.

Edited by Parag Jain