Delhi Capitals Sign Rehan Ahmed as Ben Duckett's Replacement for IPL 2026

Rehan Ahmed Joins Delhi Capitals

New Delhi [India] - On April 23, the Delhi Capitals (DC) announced the signing of England's leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed as a substitute for Ben Duckett for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.

Rehan, a right-arm leg-spinner, has an impressive record, having participated in five Tests, nine ODIs, and 13 T20Is for England, where he has taken a total of 49 international wickets. His contract with the Delhi Capitals is valued at Rs 75 Lakh, as per the IPL announcement.

Earlier in March, Ben Duckett opted out of his IPL 2026 contract with the Delhi Capitals to ensure he is in optimal physical and mental condition ahead of England's summer schedule.

Duckett, who has yet to make his IPL debut, was acquired for Rs 2 crore during the IPL 2026 auction held in December. He has chosen to focus on preparing for England's home summer, which includes three Tests against New Zealand in June and another three Tests against Pakistan in August and September. Additionally, England will host India for five T20Is and three ODIs in July.

In a post on his Instagram story, Duckett expressed that stepping back from the IPL was a tough decision, emphasizing his commitment to being fully prepared for England's upcoming fixtures.

"I have made the extremely difficult decision to withdraw from the IPL. I have given this a lot of thought and it has not been an easy choice. Representing England is something I have dreamed of since I was a child, and I want to give everything I can to English cricket. To do that, I need to ensure I am in the best possible place physically and mentally ahead of the summer," he stated.

Duckett also extended his apologies to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters for any inconvenience caused by his withdrawal, expressing his disappointment at not being able to play for the franchise despite his enthusiasm for the opportunity.

"I would like to sincerely apologise to everyone at Delhi. I was genuinely very excited about the opportunity to represent the franchise, and I fully appreciate the time and planning that goes into building a squad. I am sorry for any disruption my decision may cause. I would also like to apologise to all the fans as I know how much it means to everyone in Delhi," Duckett added.

The Delhi Capitals are set to face the unbeaten Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 25.