Ajinkya Rahane vs Eshan Malinga — IPL 2026

Ajinkya Rahane vs Eshan Malinga is one of the most searched IPL 2026 fantasy comparisons. Both players bring different strengths to your XI, and the right choice can be the difference between topping the leaderboard or missing out.

Ajinkya Rahane is a specialist batter for Kolkata Knight Riders, priced at 8.5 Cr this season. Over 14 matches he has scored a total of 619 fantasy points, averaging 44 pts per game with a best of 120 pts. With the bat he has accumulated 335 runs at a strike rate of 135.1.

Eshan Malinga is a specialist bowler for Sunrisers Hyderabad, priced at 9 Cr. Across 13 matches he has earned 571 fantasy points, averaging 44 pts per game with a best of 119 pts. He has scored 2 runs at a strike rate of 22.2, picking up 18 wickets at an economy of 8.80. He has won 1 MOTM award this season.

Batting edge: Ajinkya Rahane leads with the bat this season, making them the better pick if the pitch is expected to be batting-friendly or if the match is being played on a flat track.

Bowling edge: Eshan Malinga has been the more impactful bowler IPL 2026, and becomes especially valuable in conditions that offer pace or spin movement.

Fantasy Impact: From a pure fantasy perspective, Ajinkya Rahane is the stronger pick right now with an average of 44 pts per game and a best score of 120 pts. The value-for-money metric (points per credit) further reinforces this — always check this number before finalising your captain or vice-captain choice.

Captaincy Recommendation: Based on IPL 2026 season form, Ajinkya Rahane is the safer captaincy option. However, if the opposition's bowling or batting lineup suits the other player, consider rotating your captain pick. Always check the playing XI, pitch report, and toss result before locking in your captain.

Stats are updated after every IPL 2026 match. Compare more players using our Player Comparison Tool or check the Fantasy Leaderboard to see how top managers are building their teams.