Delhi capitals
Image Source: IANS
IPL 2026: De Kock Is The Backup Overseas Keeper, Was Easier To Start With Rickelton, Says Jayawardene
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene said it was an easy decision for them to start with South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton as their opener alongside Rohit Sharma in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, mainly because Quinton de Kock’s role in the side is that of a back-up overseas wicketkeeper.
There were a few raised eyebrows when Rickelton was picked to open alongside Rohit over the more experienced de Kock, but he justified his selection by hitting a stroke-filled 83 in the Mumbai Indians' six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), including hitting eight sixes.
With MI set to play their first afternoon game of IPL 2026 against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, Rickelton will be keen to make use of Arun Jaitley Stadium’s short square boundaries and give the five-time champions another blistering start in the competition.
Advertisement
