As the November 15, 5 PM IST, retention deadline draws near, all ten IPL franchises are gearing up for major reshuffles ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Following an unpredictable 2025 campaign and the aftereffects of last year’s mega auction, several teams are likely to take bold decisions — including releasing high-value players to free up funds and rebuild core combinations.
Here are 10 major IPL stars who could surprisingly be released before the mini-auction.
1. Venkatesh Iyer – Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR stunned everyone by spending ₹23.75 crore on Venkatesh Iyer in the 2025 mega auction. However, with only 142 runs in 11 matches, the franchise is likely to offload him and reclaim close to ₹40 crore. KKR may attempt to buy him back at a more reasonable price.
2. Jofra Archer – Rajasthan Royals
Despite being re-signed for ₹12.50 crore, Archer’s recurring injuries continue to worry RR. He picked up 11 wickets in 12 games, but his fitness concerns—combined with RR’s rumored squad overhaul—could push the franchise to release him and look for a more dependable fast bowler.
3. Andre Russell – Kolkata Knight Riders
Once the backbone of KKR, Russell had a subdued IPL 2025, scoring just one fifty and rarely bowling. Retained for ₹12 crore, the all-rounder may be released as KKR explores new leadership options and seeks to realign its overseas strategy.
4. Mitchell Starc – Delhi Capitals
DC spent ₹11.75 crore for Starc, but inconsistent availability and his Test cricket priorities remain challenges. He bagged 14 wickets in IPL 2025, but growing injury issues could push Delhi to cut ties and invest in more reliable overseas pacers.
5. Ravi Bishnoi – Lucknow Super Giants
Once the world’s No. 1 T20I spinner, Bishnoi struggled badly in IPL 2025, taking just 9 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 44.55. With a retention cost of ₹11 crore, LSG may prefer cheaper spin alternatives.
6. T Natarajan – Delhi Capitals
DC spent ₹10.75 crore on the left-arm pacer, but he played only two matches before suffering another injury setback. Given his history of frequent injuries, DC may move on and restructure their pace attack.
7. Mohammed Shami – Sunrisers Hyderabad
Shami managed only 6 wickets in the 2025 season amid continuous injury issues. With his international workload reducing, SRH may release him and look to rebuild their Indian pace unit with young bowlers.
8. Jake Fraser-McGurk – Delhi Capitals
DC bought the young Australian batter for ₹9 crore, but he scored only 55 runs in 6 matches. With expectations unfulfilled, the franchise may release him to prevent further overspending on underperforming talent.
9. Glenn Maxwell – Punjab Kings
Maxwell, signed by PBKS for ₹4.20 crore, endured a tough season with only 48 runs in 7 games, despite Punjab reaching the finals. With age and form both declining, PBKS may decide not to retain him.
10. Rachin Ravindra – Chennai Super Kings
Bought for ₹4 crore, Ravindra showed glimpses of talent with 191 runs, but CSK—who finished at the bottom—are preparing a major rebuild. To free up over ₹30 crore, CSK may make the unexpected call to release him.
