3 Teams That Can Possibly Target Quinton de Kock in the IPL 2026 Mini-Auction

South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock scored 90 off 46 balls in the second T20I against India at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday.

The left-hander smashed a quick fifty from just 26 balls and put the Indian bowlers under pressure as he helped South Africa set a strong total.

De Kock is currently without an IPL team after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders following the 2025 season. He has registered for the upcoming mini-auction with a base price of ₹1 crore. In the last IPL season, he struggled for form and scored only 152 runs in eight matches, leading many to believe he was no longer suited for the league.

Because of this, he was not included in the initial auction list for December 16. However, after some demand, he was added later. Now, after his impressive 26-ball half-century against India in Mullanpur, he is expected to be one of the sought-after players in the mini-auction.

Here are three teams that could be interested in signing him.

Also Read -Major concern for India as Suryakumar Yadav’s dismal 2025 form raises doubts before T20 World Cup 2026

3. Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals have ₹21.80 crore left for the auction. They may show interest in Quinton de Kock after releasing Faf du Plessis. The team needs an experienced overseas opener, and the South African star fits the role well. The Axar Patel-led side already has two wicketkeepers — Abishek Porel and KL Rahul — so Quinton may not start in the playing XI, but he would be an excellent backup option.

2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru could also target Quinton de Kock as a replacement for Phil Salt. They do not have a backup opener in the squad, especially after releasing Mayank Agarwal, who filled the role last season. With Quinton in good form, RCB may look to add the experienced Proteas batter in the mini-auction.

1. Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals have traded two senior players — Sanju Samson and Nitish Rana. Their top order now includes Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal, but they still need experience. Depending fully on a 14-year-old Suryavanshi might be risky, so Quinton de Kock could be a strong option. He can also bat at number three if needed.

Quinton de Kock's IPL Career

Quinton has already played for six IPL teams — Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders. He has featured in 115 matches, scoring 3309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike rate of 134.02.