IPL 2026: KKR, MI and RR show interest to buy this Sunrisers Hyderabad star player in potential trade deal

With less than a month to go before IPL franchises announce their retained player lists for the 2026 mini-auction, one name has set the cricketing grapevine buzzing: Ishan Kishan. The explosive wicketkeeper-batter, currently with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has reportedly attracted interest from three IPL-winning teams: Mumbai Indians (MI), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Rajasthan Royals (RR).

All three IPL teams have approached SRH regarding a possible trade or all-cash deal for the left-handed batsman, but there have been no further updates on this matter. 

All three teams MI, KKR, and RR appear to be in search of a top-order wicketkeeper-batter, given their current squad configurations.

A Season of Sparks and Slumps

Kishan joined SRH for a hefty Rs 11.25 crore deal in the IPL 2025 mega-auction. Though he kicked off his stint with a stunning century on debut, his campaign fizzled out, managing 354 runs in 14 matches at an average of 35.40 and a strike rate of 152.59 with nearly 200 runs coming in just two explosive knocks. Despite the inconsistency, his talent and aggression keep him high on every team’s radar.

Also Read: Who’s likely to be shown the door by Chennai Super Kings before IPL 2026?

Mumbai’s Interest Rekindled

According to reports, Mumbai Indians are leading the chase to bring Kishan back, the franchise he represented from 2018 to 2024, and for whom he was once the costliest buy at Rs 15.25 crore. Sources suggest MI view Kishan as a long-term replacement in the top order, potentially preparing for life after Rohit Sharma, who has already retired from T20Is and Tests.

Form and Future Align

Adding to his appeal, Kishan started his Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season with a commanding 173 off 247 balls for Jharkhand against Tamil Nadu. As the IPL 2026 auction nears, the question looms large, will MI reunite with their dynamic star, or will another champion side make the winning move? One thing’s certain: Ishan Kishan’s next chapter promises fireworks.