The Retention Date is here and the 10 IPL teams have announced the players that they will retain and release. There are some releases on the expected lines but there are some players that have been released that are shocking. The teams who were at the bottom last year are the ones that have taken these calls. One team in particular has released a lot of big players.
Let’s look at the Top 5 Most Shocking Releases ahead of IPL Auction 2026
1) Andre Russell by KKR
This was easily the most shocking release of the entire process. There was nobody that expected Andre Russell to be let go by KKR. He is a player that has been there for 12 years. He has been MVP of the IPL, he has won the 2024 IPL. KKR have paid for his rehabilitation when he needed it most. This was one of the best overseas players and team bonds in the IPL. The fact that he has been released says that KKR are ready to go in a new direction.
2) Matheesha Pathirana by CSK
At number 2 is the release of Matheesha Pathirana by CSK. He is such a young bowler and he has such great potential. CSK are also a team that when they have invested in a player then they back him to the fullest. The injury concerns for this player must have been a big consideration before letting go of him. They can try to buy him back at a cheaper price but it will not be easy. Matheesha Pathirana was a special talent and several IPL teams will be bidding for him.
3) Ravi Bishnoi by LSG
Ravi Bishnoi has been one of the best finds in the IPL. He has been with LSG ever since they arrived in the IPL 4 years ago. This is a player that was one of the best leg spinners in the IPL. However, LSG have found a new leg spin star in Digvesh Rathi and they want to invest in him. Ravi Bishnoi was costing 11 crores to LSG and they will look to get the player in the mini auction. He is also very young and has a number of years ahead of him.
4) Quinton De Kock by KKR
Quinton De Kock is in amazing form for South Africa and he was a player that performed very well for them. He won matches single handedly with the bat. The release of Quinton De Kock is a big surprise and one which can haunt them in the months to come. KKR should look to buy back this player as they have no top order. They will have more than 64 crores in the mini auction and they can buy anyone they want.
5) Wanindu Hasaranga by Rajasthan Royals
The fifth player in this list is Wanindu Hasaranga from Rajasthan Royals. He was an expensive player no doubt but he was an all round player. He could bat in the middle order, he was one of the highest wicket takers for them. He is a very good bowler in T20I Cricket. Wanindu Hasaranga will once again be a player in demand at the IPL Auction.
