IPL 2026: Homecoming for Nitish Rana? KKR can cash in for the experienced batter

With most of the talks around Sanju Samson's future in Rajasthan Royals (RR), few other RR cricketers also can change ships for the upcoming hurdle of IPL 2026. Nitish Rana, another player of the Rajasthan Royals, can leave the franchise ahead of the upcoming IPL season, as suggested by some recent claims.

The experienced batter can reunite with his former club, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Rana had been with KKR from IPL 2018 to IPL 2024; for the 2025 season, he joined the Rajasthan-based franchise. After winning the IPL 2024 title, Knight Riders did not retain him before the mega auction, and then Rana joined RR, where he got to play 11 matches and scored a total of 217 runs at an average of 21.70, including a highest innings of 81. Surely, it was not one of his best Indian Premier League campaigns.

As per some latest reports, Nitish can rejoin KKR before the beginning of next season's IPL. Though, there is no clear evidence about this possible move. Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders—both teams were unable to qualify for the playoffs of the previous campaign. To regain their momentum, both Francis can recreate their blueprint to avoid any kind of setbackon repeated occasions.

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Why KKR should sign Rana?

Last season, KKR's batting performance was not consistent enough to defend their title. If they think to bid for the left-handed batsman again, then this can be a significant strategic move. The 31-year-old not only can help the team with his experience but also can add variation in the squad. From the bench, Rana can be a trump card for the former champion side.

In terms of total runs in a single IPL season, IPL 2023 was his best with KKR. That season, in 14 matches, the southpaw scored a total of 413 runs for the Kolkata Knight Riders.