IPL 2026: Top 5 Big Players Who Could Be Heading to New Franchises Ahead of the Mini-Auction
As the IPL 2026 mini-auction draws near, whispers of blockbuster moves and high-profile franchise switches are intensifying. With the player retention deadline (November 15) fast approaching, several star cricketers could be released or traded to new teams. Among the most talked-about names are Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Fazalhaq Farooqi — each at a crossroads in their IPL journey.
Here’s a detailed look at why these five players could be wearing new colours when the IPL 2026 auction hammer falls this December.
Sanju Samson – Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Current team: Rajasthan Royals
Possible move: Delhi Capitals or Lucknow Super Giants
Sanju Samson has been synonymous with Rajasthan Royals for years, leading the side with flair and aggression. However, with RR’s inconsistency and questions about leadership strategy, the franchise could be eyeing a fresh direction.
- Sources indicate that RR may release Samson to free up salary purse and rebuild around young talents like Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
- Samson remains one of India’s most marketable players — and Delhi Capitals, who might part ways with Rishabh Pant, are rumored to be keen on bringing him as a marquee Indian batter.
- His captaincy experience and top-order batting make him one of the most attractive targets in the 2026 mini-auction.
🔹 Possible price range if released: ₹14–18 crore
KL Rahul – Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Current team: Lucknow Super Giants
Possible move: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) or Punjab Kings (PBKS)
After leading Lucknow for three seasons, KL Rahul’s future with LSG appears uncertain. With recurring injuries and questions around strike rate, the franchise may explore a change in leadership.
- RCB could see Rahul as a top-order stabiliser, especially if they look to balance Faf du Plessis’ exit.
- Punjab Kings, Rahul’s former team, may also consider bringing him back to rebuild their batting core.
- As a proven IPL performer and one of the most consistent openers, Rahul will command huge interest if he enters the auction pool.
🔹 Career IPL stats: 4,000+ runs, average over 45, strike rate 135+
🔹 Likely price tag: ₹12–16 crore
Washington Sundar – Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Current team: Sunrisers Hyderabad
Possible move: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) or Gujarat Titans (GT)
Washington Sundar’s IPL career has been stop-start due to injuries and limited batting opportunities. Despite his all-round ability, SRH may release him to strengthen their overseas bowling lineup.
- CSK, in particular, are reportedly interested in bringing Sundar as a long-term replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in the spin-all-rounder slot.
- His powerplay economy and ability to bat in the middle order make him a tactical asset for teams focusing on balance.
🔹 Key stat: Powerplay economy below 6.8
🔹 Likely price tag: ₹8–10 crore
Kuldeep Yadav – Delhi Capitals (DC)
Current team: Delhi Capitals
Possible move: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) or Mumbai Indians (MI)
Kuldeep Yadav has revived his career under DC, but with management rethinking their bowling composition and retention costs, he could be a surprise release or trade target.
- KKR, where Kuldeep started his IPL journey, are expected to be in the market for a quality wrist spinner after releasing multiple fast bowlers.
- Mumbai Indians could also make a move, seeking a top-tier Indian spinner to complement their young bowling attack.
- With form, control, and experience on his side, Kuldeep’s stock has never been higher.
🔹 2025 IPL record: 18 wickets, economy 7.5
🔹 Likely price tag: ₹9–11 crore
Fazalhaq Farooqi – Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Current team: Sunrisers Hyderabad
Possible move: Rajasthan Royals or Punjab Kings
The Afghan left-arm pacer has been one of the most underrated performers in T20 leagues globally. Despite strong numbers, SRH may part ways with him to retain overseas batting depth.
- RR and PBKS are both scouting reliable left-arm pacers with powerplay impact, and Farooqi fits the bill perfectly.
- His economy, variations, and wicket-taking ability at the death make him a high-value overseas pick.
🔹 T20I record: 80+ wickets, economy under 7
🔹 Likely price tag: ₹5–7 crore
Final Word
As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, these five players could headline the most exciting round of franchise reshuffling in recent years. Whether it’s Sanju Samson’s leadership move, KL Rahul’s potential comeback, or Washington Sundar’s tactical fit at CSK, the transfer window is shaping up to redefine multiple squads.
With an overseas auction venue likely in Abu Dhabi or Qatar this December, the global spotlight will once again be on India’s biggest cricket league — and the fate of these five stars may just dictate the balance of power for IPL 2026.
