Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) parted ways with veteran wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock along with several other big names ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. The franchise also released Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, Moeen Ali, and Anrich Nortje, while trading out Mayank Markande.
KKR had bought de Kock for ₹3.60 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. The 32-year-old featured in eight games, scoring 152 runs at an average of 21.71 and a strike rate of 129.91. His standout knock was an unbeaten 97 off 61 balls against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati, which included eight fours and six sixes.
Overall, de Kock brings immense experience with 115 IPL matches under his belt, amassing 3,309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike rate of 134.02, including two centuries and 24 fifties. Here are 3 teams that might look to acquire the seasoned South African at the IPL 2026 auction.
#3 Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) boast a strong opening duo in Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, who are capable of dismantling any bowling attack. Their explosive partnership was a major factor behind SRH’s runners-up finish in IPL 2024, where they consistently delivered record-breaking performances.
However, in IPL 2025, Head struggled for form and Abhishek produced a mix of good innings and low scores. With their openers unable to replicate their previous success, SRH’s batting unit faltered. Although the franchise is expected to persist with the Head–Abhishek combination for IPL 2026, Quinton de Kock could be a valuable addition at No. 3.
SRH’s middle order was inconsistent throughout IPL 2025, and the openers’ up-and-down run only added to the issues. Bringing in De Kock would add stability and firepower to the lineup. He can build on a strong start or take control if early wickets fall, keeping the scoring rate high. With ₹25.5 crore in their purse, SRH are well placed to bid for him.
#2 Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals (DC) started IPL 2025 brilliantly with four straight wins, but despite the strong opening, they failed to reach the playoffs. Their biggest issue was the top order’s inability to make the most of the powerplay. Slow starts in several matches proved costly and stalled their momentum.
The franchise has moved on from both Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk, who had a disappointing 2025 season, highlighting their need for more aggression at the top to support KL Rahul, Abishek Porel and Karun Nair. Securing a powerful opener will be a key objective for DC heading into the IPL 2026 auction.
With his experience and clean hitting, Quinton de Kock could be an excellent fit for Delhi next season. DC also have a healthy purse of ₹21.80 crore, giving them enough financial flexibility to go after the South African star.
#1 Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR have released Quinton de Kock ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, but there are still strong reasons they might consider bringing him back. The franchise has also parted ways with their other wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz. This opens the door for KKR to re-sign De Kock at a reduced price.
As a left-handed opener who can also keep wickets, he fits two crucial roles. His prior experience with the franchise and familiarity with the team setup further work in his favor. With a huge auction purse of ₹64.30 crore and six overseas slots available, KKR are well-positioned to target De Kock again. A return to the Kolkata squad in 2026 seems quite possible.
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