IPL 2026 Auction: Top 5 Released Players Expected To Attract Mega Bids
The buzz about IPL 2026 Auction is already reaching the speedometer of IPL fans’ hearts. On December 16, mega auctions for IPL 2026 will be grabbing too much attention, promising fireworks, as some high-impact players will be shuffled from one team to another.
Some of the most high-impact players have already been released from their franchises, and most of them are truly game changers who could spark a bidding war among franchise owners.
In this blog post of Starexchange, we will be looking at the top 5 released players that can attract huge bids at the IPL 2026 Auction in Abu Dhabi.
Top 5 Players With Expected Mega Bids
1. Andre Russell
A West Indian all-rounder is the most seasoned player in the IPL. He had been a devastating force down the order for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a number of years, and now that he is free, numerous teams may try to sign him. Not to mention that Russell is a very intelligent bowler who can make breakthroughs in addition to contributing a few middle overs.
2. Liam Livingstone
You can also pick Liam Livingstone as a premium overseas all-rounder now. Livingstone, who was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, is a versatile customer – his hitting power complemented by handy spin and safe hands in the outfield.
His batting at different numbers, be it middle overs, slogging at death, and not to forget his handy bowling, make him a key purchase for any team looking for versatile finishers. There will be several franchises, both batting and bowling units in mind, vying for his services.
3. Matheesha Pathirana
Chennai Super Kings’ release of Matheesha Pathirana created waves in the IPL community. Reputation for his unconventional slingy action and variations of pace, this Lankan pacer has managed a decent wicket count in previous seasons by taking 45 wickets from 30 games. With CSK’s decision to release him, freeing up an add-on of ₹13 crore as confirmed by several sources, it’s apparent they’re making way for a new look. Some franchises, particularly those lacking overseas pace options, are likely to heavily target Pathirana.
4. Vignesh Puthur
In fact, one of the potential winners of such a lottery name, Vignesh Puthur, has been let go by the Mumbai Indians. The emerging left-arm wrist-spinner was the talk of the town in IPL 2025, playing with maturity well ahead of his age.
MI’s purse left is tiny compared to others, but the move might indicate they could be looking to backfill with some other resource, and therefore, it will free Puthur in attracting interest elsewhere. He could be the man most desired as a domestic spinner in Abu Dhabi, considering his potential and the fact that he can turn matches.
5. Rachin Ravindra
CSK also parted ways with another young talented New Zealander, Rachin Ravindra, In 2024, with CSK, he scored 222 runs in 10 matches while he scored 191 runs in 8 matches in 2025.
The five-time champions may try to acquire him again in the IPL 2026 Auction, though there will likely be demand from other teams in the marketplace, when they are looking to fill that overseas opener role, given all the salary cap space they have.
Why These Releases Are Turning Heads
Value in Action
Most of these releases can significantly spare the purse space for teams like CSK and KKR. CSK’s release of Pathirana can save them ₹13 crore, and for KKR, which holds the budget of ₹64.3 crore, now has much more space to aggressively target top-tier talent.
Strategic Fit
All of the released players hold different team strategies, as some teams require finishers like Russell and Livingstone, and others can carve unique bowling talents like Pathirana and Puthur, or all-rounders like Ravindra.
Market Dynamics
With the IPL 2026 Auction, franchises will be planning and balancing budgets and slots for new strategies to occur. Releasing an array of names hints at some bold moves to be expected from different franchises.
Final Thoughts
The IPL 2026 Auction could be among the most enticing auctions in recent memory. With game-changers like Andre Russell coming back onto the market, flexible all-rounders like Liam Livingstone, unique bowlers like Matheesha Pathirana, promising spinners in the domestic circuit like Vignesh Puthur, and batters like Rachin Ravindra with a decent reputation, franchises have a myriad of options available.
For fans, analysts and Starexch, this is not a mere transfer window; it is cracking the cenacle towards strategizing, ambition and future rosters. As the bids come in and teams act quickly, the focus will remain on how these free agent stars will shape the IPL 2026 moment after becoming an extension of the franchise.
FAQ
Q: Where and when will the IPL 2026 Auction be conducted?
A: The mini auction is set for Dec. 16 in Abu Dhabi, recent reports said.
Q: Which teams have the most purse space to go after big?
A: Kolkata Knight Riders are leading the bid with ₹64.3 crore. The one which follows is CSK about ₹43.4 crore post-releases.
Q: What was the reason behind CSK releasing Pathirana and Ravindra?
A: CSK seem to be reloading:- Releasing big names like Pathirana (₹13 crore) and South Africa Rachin Ravindra, frees up funds that can be used for a different strategy or core player.
Q: Are these players in danger of not being sold?
A: It’s always a possibility but unlikely for Russell or Livingstone, who have established themselves as top names.
