The build-up to IPL 2026 is officially underway as all ten franchises released their retention lists on 15 November 2025, signaling the start of a new cycle. With teams locking in their core players ahead of the mini auction, fans have been eager to analyze every strategic move. High-profile retentions, unexpected releases, and headline-worthy trades have already sparked intense discussion across the cricketing world.
A total of 173 players have been retained this season, including 49 overseas talents who continue to hold significant value in the league’s competitive landscape. Their presence forms a strong backbone for each squad, ensuring continuity and stability as teams look to refine their combinations.
With 77 slots now open and a massive combined auction purse of ₹237.55 crore, franchises face a complex challenge. They must strike the right balance between securing proven performers, freeing up budget, and smartly filling critical gaps to build a winning team for IPL 2026.
Here’s a team‑by‑team breakdown of the most important retentions and releases — and what these moves might mean for IPL 2026.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK): Bold Moves, Emotional Decisions
Chennai Super Kings made some of the boldest and most talked-about decisions in this year’s retention phase. By holding on to key names like Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, Shivam Dube, Noor Ahmad, and Nathan Ellis, the franchise has secured a balanced core that blends seasoned leadership with emerging talent. These retentions highlight CSK’s commitment to continuity while preparing for future transitions.
However, the released list was equally dramatic. CSK decided to let go of several big names, including Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, Sam Curran, Deepak Hooda, and Vijay Shankar. Each departure raised eyebrows, but none more than Jadeja’s — a player who has been a defining figure in CSK’s identity for over a decade.
While the decision sparked emotional reactions from fans, the franchise clarified that it was driven by strategic considerations. With long-term planning, budget flexibility, and team balance in mind, CSK opted for difficult moves to shape their next chapter.
Strategic Take: CSK seems intent on reworking their balance. By letting go of some costly names, they free up significant purse space (remaining purse: ₹ 43.4 cr), giving them flexibility to bid aggressively in the auction. This could be a signal that Chennai want to refresh their middle order and add more depth, especially in the fast-bowling department.
Delhi Capitals (DC): Backing the Core, Building for the Future
Delhi Capitals have approached this retention window with a clear mix of stability and intent. By holding on to Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, and T. Natarajan, the franchise has secured a solid foundation across batting, spin, and pace. The addition of Nitish Rana through a strategic trade further strengthens their middle order and adds leadership depth.
At the same time, DC made several tough decisions as part of their restructuring plan. The franchise released seven players, including experienced names like Mohit Sharma and Faf du Plessis. Promising youngsters such as Sediqullah Atal, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Darshan Nalkande were also let go, along with Manvanth Kumar and Donovan Ferreira.
These moves indicate Delhi’s focus on creating financial flexibility and redefining their squad composition ahead of the auction. By blending proven performers with targeted releases, DC looks determined to build a more balanced, competitive lineup for the upcoming season.
Strategic Take: With a remaining purse of ₹ 21.8 cr, DC isn’t just preserving its backbone — they’re preparing to target specific gaps in the auction. The release of several underperformers or fringe players suggests they want to retool around their star core and aim for a sharper squad.
Gujarat Titans (GT): Stability First, Then Innovation
Gujarat Titans have doubled down on stability ahead of IPL 2026, choosing to retain an impressive 20-member core. The franchise continues to build around captain Shubman Gill, star spinner Rashid Khan, and power-hitter Jos Buttler. Their decision to keep pace spearheads Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada further solidifies a formidable bowling unit. With multi-utility all-rounders like Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar also retained, GT have ensured strong balance across departments.
Despite this emphasis on continuity, a few notable departures shaped their release list. The Titans parted ways with Gerald Coetzee, Karim Janat, Mahipal Lomror, Dasun Shanaka, and Kulwant Khejroliya. These exits signal the team’s intent to open up funds and refine their squad structure for the upcoming auction.
Additionally, GT completed a strategic trade by sending Sherfane Rutherford to Mumbai Indians at his existing contract value. This move reflects the franchise’s long-term planning and focus on maintaining squad flexibility heading into the next season.
Strategic Take: With only ₹ 12.9 cr left in their purse , GT seem to be playing a long game — trusting their core and targeting undervalued talent at the auction. Their release decisions suggest they are willing to gamble on youth and domestic rising stars rather than splurge on big names.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Big Names Out, Youth In
Kolkata Knight Riders entered the retention window with a clear vision for renewal, opting for a major restructuring of their squad. The franchise retained a compact 12-player core, ensuring a blend of experience and emerging potential. Key names staying on include Ajinkya Rahane and Manish Pandey for stability, Rinku Singh for finishing firepower, and the spin duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy. Young pacer Vaibhav Arora also remains part of KKR’s long-term plans.
However, the biggest talking point was the list of departures. KKR released several marquee players, marking the end of notable eras within the franchise. Andre Russell, a long-time match-winner and fan favourite, was among the most shocking exits. Venkatesh Iyer, Quinton de Kock, Moeen Ali, and Anrich Nortje also found themselves out of the retained group.
These bold decisions indicate KKR’s intent to rebuild, free up purse value, and pursue a fresh strategic direction ahead of the auction, aiming for a stronger, more balanced squad in IPL 2026.
Strategic Take: KKR is apparently trading star power for sustainability. With the largest purse among all teams — ₹ 64.3 cr available for the auction. This gives them a potent chance to reshape the squad aggressively, focusing on young, hungry talent rather than expensive names past their prime.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): Reinforcing Firepower
Lucknow Super Giants approached the retention window with a strong emphasis on continuity, keeping 19 players for the upcoming season. The franchise reaffirmed its trust in Rishabh Pant as captain, while also holding on to key performers like Nicholas Pooran, express pacer Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and the promising Abdul Samad. This stable core provides LSG with both immediate strength and long-term potential.
In the trade market, LSG made one of the most impactful moves of the window by acquiring Mohammad Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad at his existing contract value. His arrival brings invaluable experience and a proven wicket-taking edge, significantly boosting their pace attack.
However, the franchise also released several notable names to recalibrate their squad balance and purse. Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, Akash Deep, Aryan Juyal, Yuvraj Chaudhary, and Rajvardhan Hangargekar were all let go. These exits indicate a strategic reset as LSG prepares to strengthen specific areas in the auction.
Strategic Take: LSG’s swap for Mohammad Shami signals a push to bolster their pace department, especially at the death. By releasing Miller and Bishnoi, they’re freeing up purse and likely planning to bring in fresh all-rounders or finishers in the auction.
Mumbai Indians (MI): Core Intact, But Budget Tight
Mumbai Indians have signaled strong belief in their established core heading into IPL 2026. The franchise has retained key pillars such as Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav, ensuring leadership and stability across departments. Young talent like Tilak Varma and the experienced Deepak Chahar further strengthen their domestic foundation. Among overseas players, Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch continue to feature in MI’s long-term plans.
This core group reflects MI’s strategy of keeping proven match-winners while maintaining squad continuity. Their retained lineup offers a balanced mix of batting depth, pace firepower, and spin options, giving the team a solid starting point before the auction.
On the release front, Mumbai made a few targeted decisions. Arjun Tendulkar has been traded out to explore opportunities elsewhere, while Reece Topley and Mujeeb ur Rahman have been released. These moves free up funds and roster space, allowing MI to refine their squad composition for the new season.
Strategic Take: With only ₹ 2.75 cr left in their purse, MI must tread carefully. Their strategy likely centers on retaining a strong domestic core and using the remaining funds for targeted buys — possibly undervalued or uncapped players who can complement their leadership and experience.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Strengthening Around Kohli
Royal Challengers Bangalore have approached the retention window with a strong focus on preserving their established match-winners. The franchise has retained Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt, and Devdutt Padikkal to anchor the top and middle order. In the bowling department, Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal remain key figures, while Krunal Pandya and Tim David continue to offer valuable all-round depth. Jacob Bethell, Jitesh Sharma, and several promising uncapped players complete a well-rounded core.
This retained group reflects RCB’s intent to maintain stability while continuing to invest in a blend of experience and youth. With strong batting firepower and improved balance across departments, the franchise enters the next phase with a clear structure in place.
To reshape their squad and free up resources, RCB released a group of players as well. Liam Livingstone, Mayank Agarwal, Tim Seifert, Manoj Bhandage, Lungi Ngidi, Swastik Chikara, Blessing Muzarabani, and Mohit Rathee have all been let go, opening space for strategic acquisitions in the auction.
Strategic Take: RCB appears focused on continuity around Kohli’s core while letting go of inconsistent or expensive players. With a healthy purse (₹ 16.4 cr), they can aim to strengthen their middle order or bowling depth in the auction without risking overspend.
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Youth and Experience in Harmony
Punjab Kings have taken the most continuity-driven approach this season, retaining a remarkable 21 players — more than any other franchise. Their core features captain Shreyas Iyer, dependable pacer Arshdeep Singh, and experienced spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. The squad also includes all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, rising talent Nehal Wadhera, and seamer Vijaykumar Vyshak. Overseas regulars Lockie Ferguson and Xavier Bartlett further strengthen PBKS’s depth across departments.
With such a large retained group, PBKS have signaled their intention to maintain stability while fine-tuning only specific areas. The franchise appears confident in its established combination and aims to build a cohesive, settled unit heading into IPL 2026.
However, a few notable names were released to accommodate structural changes. Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Aaron Hardie, Kuldeep Sen, and Praveen Dubey were among those let go. Some reports even listed Inglis twice, highlighting discrepancies in early release announcements. These exits open limited yet strategic opportunities for PBKS at the auction.
Strategic Take: PBKS has leaned into a youth-forward model, keeping their young talents while parting ways with some big names. With ₹ 11.5 cr remaining they can look to acquire aggressive finishers or a death over specialist to complete their squad.
Rajasthan Royals (RR): Investing in Youth, Letting Go of Overseas Extras
The Royals retained a core of promising domestic talents: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, as well as Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius.
On the flip side, they released Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Fazalhaq Farooqi, as well as several uncapped players like Akash Madhwal, Ashok Sharma, Kumar Kartikeya, and Kunal Rathore.
Strategic Take: RR’s move reflects a long-term strategy: nurturing promising Indian talent and balancing their overseas slots carefully. Their auction purse stands at ₹ 16.05 cr, giving them firepower to bid for impact overseas players or to rebuild their bowling depth.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Quiet but Calculated Moves
Sunrisers Hyderabad have undergone a quiet but meaningful reshuffle ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. While not highlighted extensively in every report, the franchise has made several decisive moves that signal a shift in direction. Their most notable action was trading senior pacer Mohammad Shami to Lucknow Super Giants, a move that immediately reshaped their bowling balance.
Alongside this trade, SRH released a cluster of players to streamline their squad. Abhinav Manohar, Atharva Taide, Wiaan Mulder, Rahul Chahar, Simarjeet Singh, Adam Zampa, and Sachin Baby were all let go. These exits indicate an effort to free up roster spots and create financial flexibility, especially in areas where SRH may seek fresh options.
Strategically, the team seems to be preparing for a dynamic auction. With a remaining purse of ₹25.50 crore, SRH has positioned itself well to target high-value signings, rebuild key departments, or pursue bold, impactful acquisitions that can reshape their campaign for the upcoming season.
Big Picture: Trends, Surprises & What’s Next
- Youth Over Big Names: Many teams are releasing high-priced veterans (e.g., KKR’s Russell and Iyer, CSK’s Jadeja, RR’s Hasaranga) to make way for younger, more flexible talent. Strategies seem very forward-looking.
- Huge Auction Purse for Some, Tight for Others: KKR leads with ₹ 64.3 cr, giving them enormous firepower. MI, by contrast, is tight, with just ₹ 2.75 cr left, suggesting they will be very selective.
- Strategic Trades: Moves like Shami to LSG and Sanju Samson to CSK show that teams are not only relying on retention but also leveraging trades to tweak their core.
- Balance Between Experience and Emerging Talent: Teams like GT and DC are retaining veterans but also bringing in or preserving young Indians, suggesting a dual approach to short-term success and long-term stability.
- Auction Strategy Clearly in Focus: The purse left with each team indicates very different strategies. Some will go for high-impact players; others will play value cards, looking for bargains or young prospects.
What to Watch: IPL 2026 Mini Auction (16 December 2025)
- Who KKR Goes After: With their huge purse, expect KKR to target big names or multiple impact overseas players.
- MI’s Smart Picks: MI will likely go after niche, undervalued talent — perhaps a power-hitting all-rounder or a death-bowling specialist.
- GT’s Value Hunt: Gujarat could try to pick up rising Indian stars or look for overseas death bowlers who can be bargain buys.
- CSK’s Rebuild: Chennai might use their freed-up budget to add explosive batters or reinforce their pace attack.
- RR’s Depth Moves: Rajasthan may double down on young Indians or hunt for a mystery overseas pick to complete their squad.
Why This Retention Phase Matters
- Squad Stability: Retained players form the foundation of teams, giving management continuity and identity.
- Strategic Clarity: Releases and trades reveal the philosophy and long-term vision of each franchise.
- Auction Dynamics: How teams use their remaining purse will define the auction’s drama and outcome.
- Fan Expectations: For fans, retentions set the tone. The players who stay are the ones most trusted to deliver.
Conclusion
The IPL 2026 retention window has delivered a thrilling mix of strategy, surprises, and bold decision-making. With 173 players retained and several high-profile names released or traded, the build-up to the next season has already created intense buzz. All eyes now shift to the mini-auction scheduled for 16 December 2025, where teams will look to complete their rosters with precision.
Different franchises enter the auction with contrasting approaches. KKR, armed with one of the biggest purses, are primed to pursue marquee talent aggressively. MI, meanwhile, operate with a tighter budget but display a calculated and focused plan. Sides like Gujarat Titans and Rajasthan Royals remain committed to youth development and core stability, striking a smart blend of experience, potential, and long-term consistency.
Beyond individual moves, the retention phase underscores a broader shift in the IPL landscape. Success is no longer defined solely by star power but by sustainable squad building, adaptability, and future readiness. As the auction nears, anticipation grows for what promises to be one of the most pivotal and dynamic mini-auctions in recent years.
