Mumbai Indians eye Ishan Kishan’s return ahead of IPL mini-auction:Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals reach out Sunrisers Hyderabad for trade deal – Report

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is still some time away, but the excitement has already started building behind the scenes. Franchises are actively exploring possible player trades before the auction, and one name that has suddenly caught everyone’s attention is Ishan Kishan. The wicketkeeper-batter, currently with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), is drawing strong interest from multiple franchises, with Mumbai Indians (MI) reportedly leading the race to bring him back. MI have approached SRH for a possible trade, though talks are still at an early stage and nothing concrete has been finalised. Kishan’s return to Mumbai would mark a major homecoming, considering his earlier successful stint with the five-time champions. However, SRH are believed to be reluctant to part ways with him unless the player himself expresses a desire to leave. Although Kishan missed out on a recall to the India Test squad earlier this year due to injury, he remains very much on the selectors’ radar. With form on his side and multiple IPL franchises chasing him, a return to the Mumbai Indians could once again reignite his career and set up one of the most anticipated trades before the upcoming IPL season. Also read: ‘Collect Asia Cup Trophy from ACC Office’: Mohsin Naqvi slams BCCI for ‘petty politics’, wants to host presentation ceremony again in November KKR, RR are interested in roping in Kishan through a trade deal According to the report of The Times of India, apart from the Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have also shown interest in securing Kishan’s services. All three teams are currently looking for a top-order wicketkeeper-batter, a role Kishan fits perfectly. While Ryan Rickelton performed impressively for MI at the top of the order in IPL 2025, Kishan’s presence would offer more flexibility to the team, allowing them to explore another overseas option in the Playing XI. For the Mumbai Indians, the move is also seen as part of long-term planning. With Rohit Sharma now 38 and nearing the final stretch of his IPL career, MI want to prepare for the future. Kishan, a player they have backed strongly in the past, fits their vision perfectly. Also read: Neeraj Chopra conferred honorary lieutenant colonel rank in Territorial Army: Rajnath Singh, Army Chief attended piping ceremony of two-time Olympic medalist Kishan is in search of form ahead of the IPL 2026 season Ishan Kishan’s journey since leaving MI has been a roller-coaster ride. Bought by SRH for ₹11.25 crore in the mega-auction, he struggled to live up to expectations. However, the 27-year-old seems to be rediscovering his touch. He recently made headlines with a brilliant 173-run knock against Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season, helping Jharkhand win by an innings and 114 runs.