Shai Hope’s resurgence in white-ball cricket has made him one of the most attractive overseas options heading into the IPL 2026 auction. The West Indies captain has been in remarkable form, recently smashing a magnificent century against New Zealand in the second ODI. Known for his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed, Hope provides stability along with flexibility — a combination highly valued in franchise cricket.
Moreover, his leadership experience as West Indies’ ODI captain adds another dimension to his profile, making him a desirable option for teams looking to strengthen both their middle order and dressing-room leadership group. With several franchises searching for experienced wicketkeeper-batters and reliable middle-order performers, Hope is expected to draw strong attention when the auction begins.
5 teams that can target Shai Hope in IPL 2026
1. Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have a history of backing technically solid players who can adapt to different roles, and Hope fits that mould perfectly. Having already been part of the DC squad in the previous season, Hope is familiar with the franchise’s setup, culture, and expectations. His calm presence in the middle overs can help DC overcome their recurring issue of losing wickets in clusters.
Additionally, Hope’s wicketkeeping skills provide the Capitals with flexibility in team combinations, allowing them to play an extra all-rounder when needed.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders have moved on from Quinton de Kock, leaving a clear gap in their wicketkeeping department. KKR prefer multi-dimensional overseas players, and Hope brings exactly that — batting depth, stability, experience, and leadership. His ability to play spin well makes him a particularly valuable option at Eden Gardens, a venue known for assisting slow bowlers.
KKR also faced issues with middle-order collapses in key matches last season. Hope’s composure and his natural role as an anchor could perfectly complement the power hitters around him like Andre Russell and Rinku Singh. With Gautam Gambhir known for valuing calm, thinking cricketers, Hope aligns well with the franchise’s strategic approach.
3. Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals are entering a new phase after trading long-time skipper Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings. This move leaves a massive void — not just in terms of a captain and wicketkeeper, but also a bankable middle-order performer. Hope emerges as a premium option who can shoulder multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
RR have built a youthful top order, and they need an experienced head to guide the middle overs, especially in high-pressure chases. Hope’s temperament and ability to construct innings make him an ideal candidate. His leadership experience can also support new captain Yashasvi Jaiswal, offering tactical input and calmness on the field.
4. Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings have retained Prabhsimran Singh, but their search for an overseas wicketkeeper-batter remains a priority. Over the years, PBKS have lacked a reliable middle-order anchor — a player who can absorb pressure, rotate strike, and bat deep into the innings. Hope checks all those boxes.
His ability to read game situations and adapt his scoring tempo can help PBKS overcome their long-standing batting inconsistency. With aggressive hitters like Marcus Stoinis, and captain Shreyas Iyer around him, Hope’s role as a stabilizer becomes even more valuable. His wicketkeeping gives PBKS greater tactical flexibility with their overseas picks.
5. Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians have retained Ryan Rickelton as their primary wicketkeeper-batter, but the franchise is known for building strong bench strength — a key reason behind their sustained success. Hope fits perfectly into MI’s philosophy of having dependable backups who can step in seamlessly when needed.
Hope’s experience across conditions and his steady batting style can be invaluable on slow Wankhede surfaces late in the season or when MI require a calm finisher. Additionally, with MI likely to rotate players during a long tournament, having a seasoned professional like Hope ensures stability.
