BBL Cricketer Joining Delhi Capitals Ahead of IPL 2026? Story Goes Viral

The cricket world is currently in a state of confusion, as speculation about BBL cricketer Nikhil Chaudhary potentially joining the IPL is making rounds all over the internet. His latest update on social media has sparked rumors of him joining the Delhi Capitals.

Chaudhary, who plays domestic cricket in Australia, earned the spotlight after his appearance at the Big Bash League. In the 2025-26 season of the tournament, he has emerged as a key all-rounder for the Hobart Hurricanes.

Will Nikhil Chaudhary Join Delhi Capitals in IPL?

Chaudhary was listed as an uncapped Indian player for the IPL 2026 auction, available at a base price of 30 lakhs; but went unsold. Amidst these developments, a speculation about him reportedly joining the Delhi Capitals team has started a buzz among the fans.

One of the users on X recently posted a screenshot of Chaudhary’s Instagram story. He posted a picture of the hotel, Leela Palace New Delhi, where the Delhi Capitals players are staying for their IPL campaign.

However, there is no official confirmation on Nikhil Chaudhary Delhi Capitals presence for this edition of Indian Premier League. There has been no announcement from the player or the franchise confirming a deal. If it happens, he will get a chance to play alongside the best cricketers in the world.

Nikhil Chaudhary Listed as Local Player in IPL 2026

Nikhil Chaudhary IPL 2026 auction presence creates some confusion as he was unexpectedly listed as a local uncapped Indian player. Chaudhary flew to Australia for a two-month holiday in March 2020 but found himself in a dire situation after all the borders were closed due to COVID-19.

After working several jobs in Australia, he eventually landed at the Big Bash League with the Hurricanes. He recently delivered strong performances for Tasmania and also competed in the Global Super League, the Abu Dhabi T10, and the Max60 Caribbean.

Middle order batter Nikhil Chaudhary hasn't played domestic cricket in India for the past six years. As per IPL rules, a domestic player cannot participate in foreign leagues, which wasn't the case with the BBL star.

However, the confusion around him being listed as a local player was later clarified, with reports suggesting it was an IPL listing error. He then participated in the auction as an overseas player.

Which IPL Team Does Nikhil Chaudhary Want to Play For?

In his conversation with CNN News 18, Nikhil Chaudhary also weighed in on his dream to play in the biggest cricket league in the world, IPL. He revealed his wishes to play for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, expressing his admiration for the legend, Virat Kohli. Along with this, he also wishes to join the Punjab Kings to play with his former teammates, including Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar, and more.

"If you ask me about playing – any. I don’t care, just pick me up, I’m there to perform. But from a player perspective, I’d love to go to RCB because of Virat (Kohli) – he’s been my inspiration for 10–15 years," Chaudhary said.

“From a fun side, where my heart is – Punjab. I want to represent Punjab again, want to play with my teammates, Arshdeep [Singh], [Harpreet] Brar, and everyone. That would be a dream come true,” he added.

After his recent Instagram story of the Leela Palace New Delhi, fans are speculating that Nikhil Chaudhary IPL 2026 team might be Delhi Capitals. He might be the replacement for Ben Duckett, who has withdrawn from the 2026 IPL to prioritize his international career.