News
Rachin Ravindra To KKR? 3 Franchises That Can Trade Kiwi All-Rounder Ahead of IPL 2026
Follow UsThe New Zealand all-rounder is currently with CSK after getting picked at the IPL 2025 mega auction
Before IPL 2025’s mega auction, all eyes were on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to see if they would go after New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. And the five-time IPL winners did that, using their Right-To-Match (RTM) card to get the all-rounder for INR 4 crore.
However, his IPL 2025 displays were extremely underwhelming as the all-rounder could only get 191 runs in the entire season, averaging 27.29 with just one half-century. But with CSK lining up to get Sanju Samson, they might let Ravindra go if there’s a good trade offer.
Which three teams could give CSK that trade offer for Rachin Ravindra?
Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) seems to be one of the perfect destinations for Ravindra. Not only does KKR lack a quality opening batter, but they also don’t have a left-arm spinning option in their first team.
That’s exactly where Rachin could fit in and make an impact. Plus, the left-hander is crazy good against pace and can get on from ball one at Eden Gardens, one of the best batting surfaces in the entire IPL.
Delhi Capitals
With Samson rumoured to be on his way to CSK, Delhi Capitals (DC) might see this as a perfect opportunity to trade in the 25-year-old ahead of IPL 2026. Like KKR, DC also have a struggling top order, and a vacant overseas slot.
Faf du Plessis isn’t getting any younger either, as the South African will turn 42 by the end of next IPL. There won’t be a better option than to get Ravindra in the setup, as he is a left-hander and solves their biggest headache.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
RCB won’t be as desperate as, say, KKR or DC, but the southern franchise will see this as an opportunity to add another local flavour. Everyone knows Ravindra’s roots are from Bengaluru, and his record at Chinnaswamy Stadium in international cricket is spectacular.
Of course, RCB might have a selection headache if they get the left-hander, but remember, they had a stellar run last year with Devdutt Padikkal at No.3. If they do get Ravindra, who can slot anywhere in that top four, they will get themselves the perfect squad to defend their title.