The Delhi Capitals have added young England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed to their squad for the rest of IPL 2026. He replaces opener Ben Duckett, who withdrew just days before the season began.
Ahmed joins the team at his base price of ₹75 lakh. The 21-year-old leg-spinner was earlier part of the available player pool after going unsold in the mini-auction.
This will be Ahmed’s first appearance in the IPL. He has already received a No-Objection Certificate from the ECB and is set to link up with the squad immediately.
Duckett’s sudden exit has raised questions. The England batter decided to skip the tournament to focus on Test cricket and manage his workload ahead of a busy home summer.
Under new IPL rules, players who pull out late without injury risk penalties. Duckett could face a two-year ban from future IPL seasons and auctions.
What Ahmed Brings to DC
Ahmed’s arrival adds more 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 tricky googlies and fearless batting down the order. Delhi could use him as a No. 8 option to strengthen both bowling and finishing.
Ahmed also comes in with confidence after a good run in the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. He picked up 2 for 28 and smashed an unbeaten 19 off 7 balls in a tight game against New Zealand.
For Delhi, this signing is not just a replacement. It could turn into a smart move if Ahmed adapts quickly to IPL conditions.