Ben Duckett might be one of the most underrated KKR target options heading into the IPL 2026 auction, especially given Kolkata Knight Riders massive purse and clear gaps in their squad.
With KKR entering the auction with ₹64.3 crore, the highest purse among all franchises, the focus will be on identifying the right KKR target players 2026 who offer flexibility, intent, and proven T20 output. One name that fits that brief perfectly is Ben Duckett, a player who has flown under the radar despite excellent T20 numbers and a skill-set that directly solves KKR’s biggest problems.
Duckett appears in wicketkeepers set No.1 of the shortlist of 359 players at a base price of INR 2 crores.
Why Ben Duckett is a top KKR target for IPL 2026
For a team looking to rebuild its top order after releasing Venkatesh Iyer, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Luvnith Sisodia and Quinton de Kock, Duckett ticks multiple boxes that make him an ideal KKR target. He provides:
- A stable left-handed top-order batting option
- A high-intent opener suitable for KKR’s aggressive template
- A wicketkeeping backup option
- A proven performer against pace and spin
- A direct replacement for the Narine-style high-intent opener role if KKR choose to move Narine down the order
Since 2024, Duckett has scored 886 runs at a strike rate of 156, making him one of the most efficient T20 batters available in this auction. In a year where teams desperately want adaptable top-order options, Duckett becomes a standout in the KKR targets list.
Why KKR need someone like Ben Duckett
KKR’s biggest hole is obvious: no reliable left-hand top-order batter after Iyer’s release, and no wicketkeeper they trust for consistent runs. While Jonny Bairstow and Jamie Smith could also be strong KKR target players 2026, neither offers the left-hand variety Duckett brings.
KKR’s roster construction demands a versatile opener who can negate matchups, multiple wicketkeeper options, and someone who plays both spin and high pace without slowing down.
Duckett matches every parameter. He complements Ajinkya Rahane, can allow Narine to float down the order, and brings stability to a setup that relied too heavily on Russell and lower-order muscle in 2025.
With six overseas slots open, KKR can afford to take a calculated punt, yet this one doesn’t even feel like a punt. It feels like a necessary correction.
Which Teams Will Be Interested in Ben Duckett?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK have released Conway and Rachin, leaving them short of left-handers and spin-hitters. On slow pitches, Duckett’s range makes him a high-priority option. He will definitely feature in CSK’s list of target players for 2026.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
DC struggled massively at the top last season. Duckett brings reliability and intent, two things they lacked. But with Abhishek Porel needing a slot, DC may not be able to prioritize bidding wars as aggressively as KKR.
This is where KKR have the biggest advantage:
They have the purse, the need, and the structural space to go after Duckett harder than anyone else.
Who will KKR buy?
When analysing Who will KKR buy, their strategy suggests three pillars:
intent, versatility, and matchup-proof batting. Duckett offers all three while also doubling as a wicketkeeper—making him arguably the most complete KKR target in this auction cycle.
In a market where teams are obsessed with big names, Duckett brings value, balance, and a skill profile uniquely suited to KKR’s requirements. With the highest purse available and six overseas slots to fill, Kolkata would be missing a trick if the England opener is not among their top KKR targets for 2026.
If KKR want to fix the instability at the top and restore their powerplay dominance, Ben Duckett might be the smartest underrated pick they could make.
