As the IPL 2025 season approaches its thrilling conclusion with just only one matches left, franchises are already shifting their focus to the next big event — the IPL 2026 auction. While several stars have dazzled with match-winning performances, others have failed to justify their price tags, struggling with form, fitness, or consistency.
With the stakes getting higher each year and budget constraints becoming more crucial, team managements are expected to make some bold release decisions. Here’s a look at 5 high-profile players who are on the verge of being released before the IPL 2026 auction.
Rishabh Pant – Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
- Auction Price: ₹27 Crore
- Performance in IPL 2025: Below par with the bat, inconsistent behind the stumps
Rishabh Pant’s comeback was one of the most anticipated stories of IPL 2025. However, the wicketkeeper-batter failed to deliver on the massive expectations. Bought for a whopping ₹27 crore, Pant struggled to provide stability in the middle order and couldn’t lead from the front. With younger wicketkeeper options emerging and salary cap considerations at play, LSG might cut their losses and release him ahead of IPL 2026.
2. Ajinkya Rahane – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Current Form: Inconsistent with sporadic contributions
- Age Factor: 36+
Despite a few decent innings, Rahane’s performance lacked the impact and consistency expected from a seasoned top-order batter. With KKR aiming to build a younger, more aggressive squad, Rahane’s release seems probable. His strike rate and lack of adaptability in T20 scenarios have also drawn criticism.
Strategic Insight: Releasing Rahane could open up room for a more dynamic domestic batter or an aggressive overseas option.
3. Venkatesh Iyer – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Price Tag: ₹24 Crore
- 2025 Performance: Poor form with the bat, limited impact
Venkatesh Iyer has seen a dramatic dip in form in IPL 2025. Despite the franchise investing heavily in him, the all-rounder failed to deliver consistent performances with either bat or ball. With KKR missing the playoffs, the management may no longer afford to gamble on underperforming assets.
Trending Topic: Venkatesh Iyer dropped from IPL 2026 squad?
4. Ravichandran Ashwin – Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Stats in 2025: 7 wickets in 9 matches
- Role: Senior spinner lacking effectiveness
Ashwin’s 2025 IPL stint lacked his usual guile and control. With CSK entering a rebuilding phase post-Dhoni era, they may look to revamp their bowling attack with younger, more aggressive spinners. Ashwin’s release could also make space for international prospects or IPL debutants.
Key Point: CSK may retain players like Maheesh Theekshana or invest in upcoming Indian spinners.
5. Liam Livingstone – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
- Matches Played: 9
- Runs Scored: 87
- Expected Role: Power-hitting middle-order batsman
Liam Livingstone was expected to be RCB’s X-factor, but he failed to click with the bat, delivering underwhelming performances throughout the season. With RCB’s search for their first IPL trophy still ongoing, the franchise could replace him with a more consistent overseas performer who fits into the middle-order puzzle.
RCB IPL 2026 Plans: Overseas reshuffle likely ahead of the mega auction
Final Thoughts: Tough Decisions Ahead for Franchises
As IPL teams look to optimize their squads for performance and value, even big names aren’t immune to the chopping block. With IPL 2026 expected to bring a fresh auction dynamic, franchises will be keen to retain only those players who offer both form and flexibility.
Stay tuned for more IPL 2026 retention updates, trade rumors, and player analysis.
