IPL 2026: Top 5 trade speculations before mini auction

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is fast approaching, and franchises have already begun shaping their squads ahead of the new season. While the auction will be the major event for team restructuring, several trade discussions and rumours have already made headlines.

Teams like Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and the Delhi Capitals have been at the centre of rumours of possible player trade through man-to-man or cash deals for some of the biggest names in the cash-rich tournament. Some of these trade talks are grounded in reality, while others remain strong speculations.

Here are the top five trade speculations before IPL 2026 mini-auction

KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals to Kolkata Knight Riders)

KL Rahul, currently with Delhi Capitals (DC), is one of the biggest names in the trade rumour mill. Reports suggest that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have shown strong interest in acquiring the star batter. Rahul has a strong rapport with Abhishek Nayar, KKR’s new head coach, which has only added fuel to the speculation.

Rumours indicate that KKR were willing to offer Andre Russell in exchange for Rahul, but DC seem reluctant to part ways with one of their most reliable batters from the 2025 season. Unless KKR offer a younger core player such as Rinku Singh or Varun Chakravarthy, this blockbuster trade looks unlikely to happen.