IPL Retention 2026: The IPL just wrapped up its most explosive trade cycle in history and it set the stage for a mini-auction that could redefine how teams operate. From shocking releases to bold trades and massive purse swings, this cycle has sent a clear message: the IPL has grown into a mature league where emotion takes a back seat and pure utility drives decisions. No matter how iconic you are, if you don’t fit the plan anymore, the door isn’t far.
And yes, all signs point toward this being MS Dhoni’s final season.
Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings stole the spotlight right away. Releasing Ravindra Jadeja, their biggest all-round pillar was unthinkable a few months ago. CSK also parted ways with Sam Curran, Pathirana, Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Rachin Ravindra, and others, leaving them with a massive purse of nearly Rs 50 crore heading into the mini-auction.
But the biggest hint? Their aggressive chase for Sanju Samson for months. CSK wanted an experienced keeper-batter and someone who could seamlessly join the leadership group. That level of urgency screams one thing: they’re preparing for life after Dhoni. With Jadeja gone and Raina already long gone, this truly feels like the closing chapter of a legendary era.
CSK now need spinners, overseas top-order batters, and possibly a couple of rebuys, iincluding Pathirana. But in a mini-auction with limited options, it’s easier said than done.
Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders made one of the boldest calls of the season: releasing Andre Russell after 12 years of service. Understandable, though his impact had become sporadic. But KKR didn’t stop there. They’ve cleared the decks almost entirely, letting go of Venkatesh Iyer, Moeen Ali, Quinton de Kock, Gurbaz, and Spencer Johnson.
Now they walk into the auction with close to Rs 70 crore unheard of in a mini-auction. That kind of money guarantees bidding wars, especially with needs across the board: openers, overseas wicketkeeper, pacers, and all-rounders. KKR will be the most active table in the room.
Mumbai Indians
While CSK and KKR prepare for heavy-duty shopping, Mumbai Indians will sit back with their minimal purse of Rs 2.75 crore and still be completely relaxed. They played the trade cycle like pros, bringing in Mayank Markande and Shardul Thakur, keeping their core intact, and only releasing fringe options.
They don’t need much, and that’s their biggest strength.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Royal Challengers Bangalore kept things simple as well. Livingstone and Ngidi were released, though the Ngidi move is slightly puzzling since he could’ve been a backup for Hazlewood, who’ll join late after an Ashes and a T20 World Cup. With Rs 16.4 crore, RCB just need an overseas pacer and maybe a middle-order option. Nothing flashy.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings look settled, with an Rs 11.5 crore purse and only small holes to fill. Maxwell and Inglis are gone, but Punjab’s core under Ponting remains intact. Expect an overseas batter and fast bowler to be top priorities.
Rajasthan Royals
RR were one of the smartest traders this cycle. They got both Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, and let go of Theekshana and Hasaranga, hinting at a hunt for spinners in the auction. Their young Indian batting core is strong but slightly inexperienced, so expect them to go after an established overseas batter.
RR’s purse is comfortable, and their shopping list is clear.
Delhi Capitals
DC brought in Nitish Rana from RR, strengthening the middle order and adding flexibility. With fast bowlers being guarded like treasure this season, DC holding on to Natarajan and Mukesh Kumar tells a story: every team fears a scarcity in the pacer pool.
Now they need openers and one big overseas hitter. With steady trades behind them, DC looked balanced heading into the auction.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
SRH released Mohammed Shami, Rahul Chahar and others, boosting their purse to about Rs 30 crore. Their batting has explosive firepower, but their bowling needs major fixing pace, spin, and all-rounders included. Expect them to go hard in bidding wars, especially against CSK and KKR.
Gujarat Titans
GT typically operates with calm efficiency. They released fringe names, kept faith in Tewatia and Shahrukh, and now need middle-order reinforcement and a Rashid Khan backup. Their purse isn’t massive, but they won’t be chasing big splashes.
Lucknow Super Giants
LSG acquiring Mohammed Shami and retaining Mayank Yadav were smart decisions, but losing Ravi Bishnoi hurts badly. Now they need a top-tier spinner and a strong Indian batter. The Shami-Mayank-Mohsin trio looks great on paper, but fitness concerns mean LSG must invest in depth.
A Mini-Auction That’ll Break Records
Three teams CSK, KKR, and SRH are holding massive purses. Almost every team is desperately guarding fast bowlers. Big names have changed homes. Icons like Jadeja and Russell have parted ways with their long-time franchises.
Also Read: BCCI confirms IPL 2026 auction date – Here’s when and where it will happen!
