With the IPL 2026 mini-auction quickly approaching, teams are almost done polishing their retention lists before the deadline of November 15. The current trading period has already initiated significant talks, and the possibility of several high-profile players donning different team colors next season is very real.
Here’s a look at the top five major players likely to be traded before the mini-auction:
1. Sanju Samson — Rajasthan Royals to Delhi Capitals?
One of the biggest stories this trade season involves Rajasthan Royals skipper Sanju Samson, who could be on his way to Delhi Capitals. Reports suggest DC have offered Tristan Stubbs in exchange for Samson.
Samson’s IPL 2025 performance saw him score 285 runs in nine matches, slightly below his usual standards. Chennai Super Kings also showed interest, but a proposed trade involving Ravindra Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad was reportedly rejected by CSK. If completed, this move could be the blockbuster deal of IPL 2026.
2. KL Rahul — Kolkata Knight Riders’ Dream Target
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are eyeing a big acquisition in KL Rahul, currently with Delhi Capitals. However, trade negotiations face hurdles since KKR lacks suitable assets to offer in return.
Franchise stars like Rinku Singh and Angkrish Raghuvanshi are untouchable, while veterans Andre Russell and Sunil Narine are unlikely to move. Venkatesh Iyer’s form dip further complicates matters. Unless KKR revises its proposal, Rahul’s move looks uncertain.
3. Washington Sundar — Possible Homecoming to CSK
A homecoming could be on the cards for Washington Sundar, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are reportedly in talks with Gujarat Titans (GT) for a trade worth around ₹3.2 crore.
Sundar managed 133 runs and 2 wickets in IPL 2025 — a modest season by his standards. CSK believe the Tamil Nadu all-rounder could rediscover his best form under their setup. A potential swap deal involving Shivam Dube or Sam Curran is being discussed.
4. Kuldeep Yadav — Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Spin Target
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are aggressively pursuing Kuldeep Yadav to bolster their spin attack. However, Delhi Capitals, who retained the left-arm spinner for ₹13.25 crore, are reluctant to part with him.
Kuldeep bagged 15 wickets in IPL 2025 and remains a core part of DC’s bowling unit. SRH skipper Pat Cummins reportedly wants him in the squad, but this trade may remain just a rumor for now.
5. Fazalhaq Farooqi — Rajasthan Royals to Release Afghan Pacer?
Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi could be heading out of Rajasthan Royals after a poor IPL 2025 season — 0 wickets in 5 matches with an economy of 10.00.
With Jofra Archer already in the lineup, RR are likely to free up an overseas slot by trading or releasing Farooqi before the auction.
Trade Talks Intensify Ahead of Deadline
The IPL 2026 trade window is about to shut, and the franchises have been working extremely hard to complete their squads. The next few days might see the trading of several high-impact players which would drastically change the tournament’s scenario as there are already prominent players involved.
Keep an eye on the developments because the IPL trade market is still hot.
