Former India batter Suresh Raina has urged Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to consider Rinku Singh as their captain ahead of the IPL 2027 season.
Raina made the suggestion after Rinku led Meerut Mavericks to the title in the fourth season of the UPT20 League. Meerut defeated Lucknow Falcons by 94 runs in the final at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
Speaking to the broadcaster after the final, Raina said KKR should invest in Rinku and give him an opportunity to lead the side. He pointed out that the 28-year-old already has experience as a leader and could develop further if given regular responsibility.
“KKR is looking for a captain, but I think the franchise has finally gotten its captain,” Raina said.
Rinku served as KKR’s vice-captain during the 2026 IPL season, with Ajinkya Rahane as captain. Rahane has now retired from international and IPL cricket, leaving KKR looking for a new leader for the next season.
KKR have reportedly been linked with Hardik Pandya, although there has been no concrete development regarding a possible trade. Raina’s comments have now added Rinku to the conversation.
Rinku enjoyed an impressive campaign as captain of Meerut Mavericks. He led the team in 10 matches during the 2026 UPT20 League and guided them to nine victories.
Although Rinku had little impact with the bat in the final, being dismissed after facing just two deliveries, Meerut posted 203/7. Opener Divyansh Joshi played the key role with a blistering 105 off 40 balls.
Lucknow Falcons struggled in the chase and were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, giving Meerut a comfortable 94-run victory.
Rinku has been associated with KKR since the 2018 IPL season and has remained with the franchise throughout his IPL career. In 73 matches, he has scored 1,394 runs.
His reputation at KKR was significantly boosted during the 2023 IPL season when he hit five consecutive sixes off Gujarat Titans pacer Yash Dayal in the final five balls to complete a dramatic victory.
Rinku was also KKR’s leading run-scorer in the 2026 IPL season. With his recent leadership success in domestic cricket, Raina believes the franchise should consider giving him a bigger role.
For KKR, the decision over their next captain could become one of the major talking points ahead of IPL 2027.
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