With the IPL mini auction set for December, the behind-the-scenes action has already begun. Teams are strategizing and finalizing the list of players to retain or release by mid-next month. Questions are swirling:
Will Sanju Samson end his journey with Rajasthan Royals?
Will Chennai Super Kings undergo a complete transformation?
And will Mumbai Indians pull off a surprise move?
Let’s take a closer look at which teams might make bold calls ahead of IPL 2026.
Chennai Super Kings: Tough Decisions After a Tough Season
The 18th edition of IPL saw Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finish last on the table, managing only four wins in 14 matches. Initially led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the captaincy later shifted back to MS Dhoni, but even that couldn’t turn the tide.
The main problem? The poor form of their top-order batters.
According to reports, CSK’s likely release list includes Sam Curran, Devon Conway, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Rahul Tripathi. With R. Ashwin retiring from IPL, an additional ₹9.75 crore will be added to the Super Kings’ purse.
At 44, MS Dhoni is still expected to feature for one final season. Emerging stars like Dewald Brevis, Ayush Badoni, and Urvil Patel are almost certain to stay after strong showings. There’s even talk that CSK might pursue Sanju Samson through the trade window, which remains open until seven days before the auction.
Releasing top players will also give Chennai a bigger budget to work with — increasing the chances of a blockbuster trade.
Rajasthan Royals: Sanju Samson’s Future Under the Spotlight
Another team struggling last season was Rajasthan Royals, who ended with just four wins out of 14 matches. The biggest question surrounding them is whether Sanju Samson will continue as captain.
If Samson is traded, Riyan Parag is seen as the front-runner to take over leadership duties.
Reports also suggest that Shimron Hetmyer could be released after a disappointing season (239 runs in 14 matches, with one half-century). Sri Lankan players Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, along with India’s Shivam Dube, are also rumored to be on the release list.
However, with Kumar Sangakkara expected to replace Rahul Dravid as head coach, there could still be changes in the final retention plan.
Mumbai Indians: Reshuffling Their Line-up Again
Over in the Mumbai Indians (MI) camp, rumors suggest Will Jacks might be traded out. Last season, Jacks scored 233 runs in 13 matches and picked up six wickets — a decent, if not spectacular, performance.
Due to his international duties, Jacks missed part of the season, leading Mumbai to bring in Jonny Bairstow, who impressed in just two playoff matches. MI may retain Bairstow for IPL 2026.
Meanwhile, Deepak Chahar is reportedly set to be released after a below-par season — taking only 11 wickets in 14 games and struggling with injuries and death-over economy. Karan Sharma and Mujeeb ur Rahman could also be released.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rumors Around Virat Kohli
RCB, aiming to defend their IPL title, are expected to make minimal changes. However, all eyes are on Virat Kohli, whose commercial deal with the franchise was reportedly not renewed — sparking exit rumors.
Sources clarify that this commercial agreement (image rights, brand shoots, etc.) is separate from his main player contract, and hence, it doesn’t imply he’s leaving.
There are also whispers that RCB’s ownership might change before next season, which could explain Kohli’s delay in signing new deals.
Among players likely to be released are Liam Livingstone (112 runs in 10 matches), Mayank Agarwal, and Nuwan Thushara.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Leadership Shuffle Ahead
KKR’s possible release list includes Quinton de Kock, Venkatesh Iyer, Moeen Ali, and Spencer Johnson. The franchise is also considering bringing in a new captain to replace Ajinkya Rahane, marking another fresh start for the two-time champions.
Punjab Kings and Other Franchises: Major Overhauls Coming
The Punjab Kings could part ways with Glenn Maxwell, Lockie Ferguson, David Miller, and Shardul Thakur.
Delhi Capitals may release Faf du Plessis, while Gujarat Titans are expected to let go of Ishant Sharma and Sai Kishore.
Every franchise seems to be preparing for an aggressive rebuild before the mini auction.
The Hottest Pick for IPL 2026: Cameron Green
Across all discussions, there’s one name everyone agrees on — Cameron Green. The Australian all-rounder, known for his explosive hitting and effective bowling, is expected to be the most sought-after player in the 2026 auction. After returning from injury, his presence is predicted to ignite the IPL tables once again.
Conclusion: All Eyes on Next Month’s Retention Lists
Teams are planning meticulously for IPL 2026, balancing budgets, trades, and strategy. With the mini auction just weeks away, fans are eagerly waiting to see if any surprise releases or trades shake up the league.
Until the official retention lists drop next month — the IPL discussions are only getting hotter!
