IPL 2026 Trade Window: The IPL 2026 trade window is heating up, and while all eyes are on the potential blockbuster swap between Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson, several other trade deals are quietly brewing behind the scenes.
With the mini-auction scheduled for December 15th and the retention deadline looming on November 15th, franchises are strategizing hard to strengthen their squads before the new season. Here’s a look at three more players who could be on the move.
KL Rahul
KL Rahul, one of the most explosive batsmen in the IPL, is currently with Delhi Capitals. The franchise had even explored the idea of making him captain, though Rahul reportedly refused. Despite this, Delhi is hesitant to let go of their star player.
Kolkata Knight Riders are interested in bringing Rahul to their squad, and one proposed idea was trading Andre Russell to Delhi in exchange. However, reports suggest that Delhi may not agree unless KKR includes other players like Rinku Singh or Varun Chakravarthy in the deal. Rahul’s stellar form makes him one of the most valuable trade assets this season.
Washington Sundar
Following Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, Chennai Super Kings are on the lookout for a reliable all-rounder to fill the void. Washington Sundar, who currently plays for Gujarat Titans and India, has emerged as a potential target.
While Gujarat’s head coach Ashish Nehra has denied any ongoing trade discussions, sources indicate that Sundar’s name has been floated in strategic talks. CSK sees him as a versatile addition capable of strengthening both their batting and bowling line-ups. Sundar’s improvement over the last few seasons makes him a player to watch during the trade window.
Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer, who was acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 23.75 crore in the last mega auction, is reportedly on the radar of Royal Challengers Bangalore. RCB is reportedly considering a trade involving Iyer in exchange for Phil Salt.
However, the high price tag of Iyer could make negotiations tricky. While the trade would benefit both teams tactically, financial considerations may delay or even halt the deal. Fans of both teams will be watching closely as this one develops.
What This Means for IPL 2026
With just weeks to go before the retention deadline and the mini-auction, IPL 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory. While the Jadeja-Samson swap continues to dominate headlines, the potential moves involving Rahul, Sundar, and Iyer could also reshape the balance of power across franchises.
As the clock ticks down, franchises are playing a high-stakes game of chess, balancing player performance, team composition, and budgets. One thing is clear: the IPL 2026 trade window is going to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
