Quinton de Kock’s late registration for the IPL 2026 mini-auction has caused a stir. The South African wicketkeeper-batter, who recently reversed his international retirement, has been in sensational form.
His century in the third ODI against India in Visakhapatnam, combined with earlier big scores against Pakistan, is a sign that he is still good enough to be an explosive opener and reliable wicket-keeper.
With a base price of INR 1 crore, Quinton de Kock is now one of the most attractive prospects in the auction.
While the auction will see 350 players go under the hammer on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, the focus has naturally turned to where De Kock might land. Here’s a list of probable teams that will bid big for the Protea.
KKR seems the natural destination for Quinton de Kock. The Proteas’ last IPL stint was with the Knight Riders, although it was underwhelming, with only 152 runs at an average of 21.
Despite this, KKR’s need for a quality wicketkeeper-opener remains urgent. Having 13 slots to fill and a maximum remaining purse of ₹64.3 crore, the franchise is in a commanding position to re-acquire De Kock at a bargain.
History shows that IPL teams often target players they release, especially if they can get them at a lower base price. De Kock’s reduced floor of ₹1 crore provides KKR an ideal opportunity to bring back an experienced international star.
Given how well he knows the team environment, a reunion cannot be ruled out.
2. Delhi Capitals (DC)
Criterion
Stats
Matches
23
Runs
720
Average
32.73
Strike Rate
134.83
100/50
1/5
(Table - Quinton de Kock's IPL stats for Delhi Daredevils)
The Delhi Capitals have been on the hunt for an aggressive opening partner for KL Rahul since they parted ways with Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk. De Kock’s attacking style makes him a perfect fit for this role.
With eight slots to fill and a healthy remaining purse of ₹21.8 crore, DC has both the financial firepower and the tactical incentive to go after the Proteas wicketkeeper-batter.
Quinton de Kock has a history with the franchise, having played for Delhi Daredevils from 2014 to 2016, also providing a sense of familiarity. He is a natural choice for any team that wants to dominate the powerplay and set up matches early.
3. Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Criterion
Stats
Catches
68
Stumpings
16
Most catches in match
4
Most dismissals in match
4
(Table: Quinton de Kock's wicket-keeping stats in IPL)
While Punjab Kings might be a dark horse for Quinton de Kock, their team dynamics make him one of the main strategic targets. With only two overseas slots available and a modest purse of ₹11.5 crore, PBKS require someone who can fill multiple slots.
De Kock's dual skill as a wicketkeeper and an explosive opener gives them the flexibility they lack, especially in the absence of Josh Inglis for major parts of the IPL 2026 season.
The presence of de Kock will help PBKS strengthen their top order with his attacking game, thereby giving them more options for both T20 and 50-over style strategies within the IPL.
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Quinton de Kock (Source: AFP Photos).jpg)
.jpg?type=mq "Fate of rejected RCB players")
