Three Teams Likely to Target Quinton de Kock in IPL 2026 Auction

Quinton de Kock has forced his way back into IPL conversations with a blazing 90 off 46 balls against India. His knock has revived his value just days before the IPL 2026 mini auction on 16 December.

The South African star has played 115 IPL matches and scored 3309 runs with a strike rate of 134.02. His poor 2025 season with KKR, where he made only 152 runs in eight games, pushed him out of the first auction list. Teams were unsure if he was still the same attacking opener.

That changed after his fast fifty in Mullanpur. Several franchises asked for his name to be added again. They now see him as a steady top order option who brings experience and left handed balance.

1. Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals have a purse of INR 21.80 crore. They let go of Faf du Plessis and now need an overseas opener who can also keep wickets. De Kock fits both roles well. He has also played in Delhi before and understands the conditions.

2. Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals are another team to watch. After trading out Sanju Samson and Nitish Rana, they need stability around young players like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal. De Kock can open or bat at three, which gives them flexibility.

3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru may enter the bidding too. They released Mayank Agarwal and need someone to replace Phil Salt at the top. RCB often look for powerplay hitters and de Kock matches that style.

Teams also like his recent form for South Africa. Coaches feel his mix of experience, clean hitting and wicketkeeping makes him a low risk signing.

De Kock’s 2025 IPL season may have been quiet but his timing could not be better now. With franchises searching for solid top order players, his name is back among the top overseas targets.