IPL 2026 Retention: Released players who can spark bidding war at mini-auction

The IPL 2026 retention deadline on Saturday, November 15 brought a lot of surprises for fans. Many big players were released by their teams, and now they will go back into the mini-auction player pool. The auction will be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, and franchises are likely to spend big to grab some of these major players.

Here are the biggest names who could attract the most attention at the auction next month.

Andre Russell (released by KKR)

This was the biggest shock of the retention day. Andre Russell has been one of the most dangerous all-rounders in T20 cricket for almost a decade. Even though he did not perform well for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2025 season, teams know what Russell can do on his day. Many teams looking for a finisher will surely eye him at the auction.

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Ravi Bishnoi (released by LSG)

Ravi Bishnoi is one of India’s brightest young spinners. Lucknow Super Giants releasing him was a big surprise because quality Indian spinners are a rare commodity in the IPL auction. Bishnoi could attract big money at the IPL 2026 mini-auction as several franchises need a long-term Indian spin bowling option.

Matheesha Pathirana (released by CSK)

Pathirana, often called the ‘Junior Malinga’ due to his slingy action, was a key bowler for Chennai Super Kings in the past few seasons. Although injuries affected him recently, he remains one of the best young death bowlers in T20 cricket. Teams looking for a specialist in the crucial overs will definitely go after him.

Venkatesh Iyer (released by KKR)

Venkatesh Iyer was once seen as a future India all-rounder and a long-term Kolkata Knight Riders star after he was bought by the franchise for a whopping Rs 23 crore. But his high price tag and inconsistent form led to his release. Teams will look to target him at the auction. KKR will also be aiming to buy him back at a lower price.

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Liam Livingstone (released by RCB)

Livingstone is known for his explosive batting and huge sixes. He also offers a handy spin option, making him a useful all-rounder. RCB releasing him was not a surprise, especially after he failed to perform last season. However, he will still be a big target at the auction as many franchises love multi-dimensional players.