IPL Trade News Highlights: LSG's Thakur, GT's Rutherford traded to MI; auction date reportedly announced

Being the current title holders, RCB aren’t expected to make too many changes to the squad that had delivered the franchise its maiden IPL title last season.

As for the players who are likely to be released into the auction pool, Liam Livingstone tops the list, given the English spin-bowling all-rounder barely contributed with bat or ball last season after being bought for Rs 8.75 crore. Another player likely to be released is left-arm pacer Yash Dayal – due to his off-field controversies more than his on-field performance.

📰 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗨𝗟 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗞𝗨𝗥 𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗦 𝗠𝗨𝗠𝗕𝗔𝗜 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗦 𝗔𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗢𝗙 𝗜𝗣𝗟 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Read more 👉 https://t.co/bwcjR4dDQs pic.twitter.com/NjvmKRA3NZ

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) November 13, 2025

Bought at the last auction for INR 10 crore, Mohammed Shami endured a tough 2025 season. He took just six wickets at an economy rate of 11.23 and was not played regularly by SRH. He has since then also fallen out of favour of the Indian team management. These factors could play a role in SRH’s willingness to talk about Shami’s trade.

However, Shami is among the greatest Indian bowlers to play the game and had taken 48 wickets in just two seasons for GT before joining SRH. There is merit in leaving him out but the decision could come back to bit SRH.

Senior West Indian all-rounders Andre Russell and Sunil Narine have been part of Kolkata Knight Riders for more than a decade now. And their importance for the franchise can be gauged from the fact that ‘Dre Russ’ and Narine had been retained ahead of Shreyas Iyer ahead of last year’s mega auction despite Iyer captaining the franchise to their third title.

Age, however, will be a major factor for the franchise to consider retaining both West Indians, especially since they’re both 37. And judging by their performances earlier this year, Russell appears to be the one who’s more likely to be released into the auction pool.

According to spin icon Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been part of Chennai Super Kings as well as Rajasthan Royals, Samson’s unlikely to get the leadership role even if the trade deal with Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran goes through.

“I don’t think Sanju will be given the captaincy because it would be his first season there. I think Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue, but he will definitely be an option going ahead,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Pant was seen with LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka during the meeting to discuss the retentions which means he would not be released. Pant, who was bought for record Rs 27 crore in last auction, did not live up to the expectations as a batter or captain in IPL 2025.

IPL retention talks for @LucknowIPL are underway.

Delighted to have @TomMoodyCricket on board, bringing immense experience and strategic insight. Great discussion with @RishabhPant17, Justin Langer, and Bharat Arun as we plan for the season ahead.#LSG pic.twitter.com/8R3GmQVHsy

— Dr. Sanjiv Goenka (@DrSanjivGoenka) November 13, 2025

IPL legend Shane Watson has joined KKR as assistant coach for IPL 2026, the franchise announced on Thursday.

Speaking on the announcement, Venky Mysore, CEO of Kolkata Knight Riders, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Shane Watson to the KKR family. His experience as a player and coach at the highest level will add immense value to our team culture and preparation. His understanding of the T20 format is world-class, and we look forward to his contributions both on and off the field.”

Retention mode 🔛 Stay tuned⏳💙 pic.twitter.com/8awcOo3gKC

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) November 13, 2025