Delhi Capitals have included young England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed in their team for the remaining matches of IPL 2026. He replaces opening batsman Ben Duckett, who withdrew his name a few days before the start of the season.
Ahmed has joined the team at his base price of ₹75 lakh. The 21-year-old leg spinner was part of the available player pool after not being sold in the first mini-auction.
This will be Ahmed’s first appearance in the IPL. He has already received the No Objection Certificate from the ECB and is ready to join the team immediately.
Duckett’s sudden exit has raised questions. The England batsman decided to skip the tournament to focus on Test cricket and manage his workload ahead of a busy domestic summer.
Under the new IPL rules, players who leave the field late without injury can be fined. Duckett could face a two-year ban from future IPL seasons and auctions.
What brings Ahmed to DC
The arrival of Ahmed has added depth to Delhi’s spin attack. He joins a strong group that includes captain Axar Patel and wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav.
He is known for his clever googlies and fearless batting in the lower order. Delhi can use him as the number 8 option to strengthen both bowling and finishing.
Ahmed is also full of confidence after his good performance in the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. He took 2 for 28 and scored 19 not out from 7 balls in a tight game against New Zealand.
This signing is not just a replacement for Delhi. If Ahmed adapts to the IPL conditions quickly then this could turn out to be a smart move.
