IPL 2026 Retention: 10 Big Stars Who Could Be Released Ahead of Deadline

The retention deadline for IPL 2026 is getting nearer, and with it every one of the 10 franchises is making plans for radical changes that will take place before they actually retain their squads on November 15, 5 PM IST. Several teams after a bumpy 2025 season and the consequences of the previous year’s mega auction are rumored to make drastic moves to clear up their financial situation and revive their main player groups.

Here are 10 high-profile players who could surprisingly be released ahead of the mini-auction.

1. Venkatesh Iyer – Kolkata Knight Riders

KKR shocked fans when they spent a massive ₹23.75 crore on Venkatesh Iyer in the 2025 mega auction. However, with just 142 runs in 11 matches, his underwhelming season may prompt the franchise to release him. KKR are also looking to free up nearly ₹40 crore and may target buying him back at a lower price.

2. Jofra Archer – Rajasthan Royals

RR re-signed Jofra Archer for ₹12.50 crore, but his frequent injuries remain a major concern. Though he bagged 11 wickets in 12 games, the Royals—rumored to be rebuilding after potential trades—may release him due to fitness uncertainty and the need for a more reliable fast-bowling option.

3. Andre Russell – Kolkata Knight Riders

A KKR legend, Andre Russell’s role diminished drastically in IPL 2025. He scored only one half-century and was not used extensively as a bowler. Retained for ₹12 crore last season, Russell may be released so KKR can allocate funds toward fresh leadership options.

4. Mitchell Starc – Delhi Capitals

DC picked up Mitchell Starc for ₹11.75 crore, but his focus on Test cricket and inconsistent IPL availability could work against him. With 14 wickets last season but growing injury concerns, Starc may be released as DC look to secure more reliable overseas options.

5. Ravi Bishnoi – Lucknow Super Giants

Once the world’s top-ranked T20I bowler, Ravi Bishnoi’s form has nosedived. He managed just 9 wickets in 11 matches at a steep average of 44.55. With a retention cost of ₹11 crore, LSG might opt for more economical spin resources.

6. T Natarajan – Delhi Capitals

Bought for ₹10.75 crore, Natarajan featured in only two games before yet another injury setback. Given his long-standing injury history, DC could be unwilling to continue investing heavily in the left-arm pacer.

7. Mohammed Shami – Sunrisers Hyderabad

Shami’s value dipped after recurring injury issues and limited appearances in the 2025 season, where he picked just 6 wickets. With his international career winding down, SRH may choose to release him and explore younger Indian pacers.

8. Jake Fraser-McGurk – Delhi Capitals

Purchased for ₹9 crore, the young Australian batter delivered only 55 runs in 6 matches. With the hype around him fading, DC may release him to avoid overspending on a player who hasn’t lived up to expectations.

9. Glenn Maxwell – Punjab Kings

PBKS took a chance on Maxwell for ₹4.20 crore, but he managed only 48 runs in 7 games despite the team reaching the finals. Considering his form slump and advancing age, Punjab may opt against retaining him.

10. Rachin Ravindra – Chennai Super Kings

Rachin Ravindra, bought for ₹4 crore, showed promise with 191 runs, but CSK—finishing bottom last season—are planning a major rebuild. With a target of freeing up nearly ₹30 crore, Ravindra may unexpectedly be released.