Last Updated on 1 hour ago by Charbel Coorey
Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement leaves Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) with a decision to make before IPL 2027 commences. The veteran batter announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing curtains to his playing career and also ending his stint as KKR captain.
Rahane led the franchise for the last two seasons and his departure has opened up the race for a new leader.
The IPL auction and trade window is still to come and KKR have plenty of time to explore their options. But if the franchise opts to stick with the current squad, vice-captain Rinku Singh seems the most probable pick.
Rinku Singh Emerges as the top contender for KKR captain
Rinku Singh’s elevation to vice captain ahead of IPL 2026 now appears to be a move aimed at the future. KKR coach Abhishek Nayar had spoken at the time about Rinku’s development as a player and a leader. The management thought he was ready to handle more responsibility, working with Rahane.
“He had become someone that the dressing room naturally listened to and respected,” Nayar had said. The decision to make him vice-captain after his success with India was a good one, as it allowed him to learn while supporting Rahane throughout the season.
Rinku may not have a lot of experience as a captain in the senior franchise cricket, but his record in the domestic circuit has been encouraging. He led Meerut Mavericks to the UPT20 title in 2024, and then had another strong season in 2025 as the team ended as runners up. He has also captained Uttar Pradesh in List A cricket, succeeding Bhuvneshwar Kumar before the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
KKR would also be considering Rinku’s appointment for the long term. He’s one of the most trusted players on the roster and knows the franchise culture better than most. Handing him the captaincy could provide stability for the coming years instead of searching for another short-term option.
While Rinku looks the strongest internal candidate for the time being but KKR have other options as well, Sunil Narine is one of the most experienced in the squad. He joined KKR in 2012 and has been one of the best performers for the franchise, as well as a stand-alone face of the franchise after Gautam Gambhir’s exit. Although he has not led KKR in the IPL, his long association with the Knight Riders family in different leagues has made him a respected figure in the dressing room.
A decision that could shape KKR’s future
This decision is also crucial as IPL 2027 will be the last season of the current three year cycle. KKR can go for an experienced captain for a season and take a long term call after the next mega auction. Alternatively, the franchise can support Rinku Singh and begin prepping for the future immediately.
Rahane’s retirement has forced KKR to take a call on leadership earlier than expected. Rinku Singh is the favourite at this point, thanks to the responsibilities already given to him and the faith shown in him by the team management.
Where KKR wants to go will become apparent over the coming months. Replacing Rahane with a youth & experience or an outside option will be among the biggest decisions for the franchise before IPL 2027.
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