With KL Rahul parting ways with Lucknow Super Giants, he enters the IPL 2025 mega auction as a top target. Known for his versatility as a reliable opener and skilled wicketkeeper, Rahul has scored over 4,000 IPL runs with a strike rate of 134.61 across 132 games. Despite recent dips in form, his experience and consistency remain valuable assets. Here’s a look at three teams likely to make a play for Rahul.
Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Punjab Kings expected to be frontrunners for Karnataka star’s signature
- Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
A Karnataka native, Rahul would bring local appeal and familiarity to RCB, where he previously played from 2013 to 2016. With key players like Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik absent, RCB has a gap in the top order and wicketkeeping role. Rahul’s skills could stabilize the lineup, while his familiarity with the RCB environment might ease his transition into the squad. - Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR, facing a leadership void following the departures of Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt, could look to Rahul as a versatile solution. Rahul’s experience as a captain makes him an appealing option for KKR, which currently lacks a confirmed leader. In addition to potentially filling the captaincy role, Rahul’s ability to open the innings and manage wicketkeeping would address multiple team needs. - Punjab Kings (PBKS)
With the largest budget in the auction, PBKS might aim to bring Rahul back, capitalizing on his familiarity with the franchise. Rahul, who captained PBKS in previous seasons, has demonstrated an ability to anchor innings and accelerate as needed—qualities PBKS could leverage to build a strong batting foundation.
