As the IPL 2026 league stage finishes its final matches, franchises are already turning their attention toward the upcoming cycle. Front offices are strictly
evaluating multi-crore salaries, persistent fitness concerns, and strategic future planning to radically modify their rosters.
With teams prioritizing long-term durability and squad balance, several marquee names might find themselves in the auction pool or stepping away from the game entirely.
Here are five high-profile players who face potential release or squad removal ahead of the next IPL cycle.
MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)
The legendary MS Dhoni did not feature on the field for CSK recently due to a persistent calf strain. Having taken an emotional lap of honor at Chepauk following Chennai's final home game, the veteran icon is widely expected to formally step away from the sport. His retirement or omission from the active roster will officially grant the franchise absolute clarity and financial flexibility for their long-term rebuild.
Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)
In what would be the end of an era, former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma could be heading to the auction pool. Following recent leadership transitions and murmurs of a franchise reset, speculations are rife that the five-time IPL-winning skipper might mutually part ways with the team. A release would allow Rohit to seek a fresh challenge to cap off his illustrious career, while instantly making him the most sought-after leader and opening batter in the upcoming mega auction.
Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians)
Leading a Mumbai Indians squad that has severely struggled and languished at the bottom of the table, Hardik Pandya's captaincy and physical utility have become major talking points. After MI entirely missed out on playoff qualification, Pandya's dropped individual returns with both bat and ball could force Mumbai into a hard squad reset. Clearing his marquee salary slot may be the first major step in rebuilding the franchise's core.
Rishabh Pant (Lucknow Super Giant)
In what could be one of the biggest blockbuster moves of the upcoming cycle, explosive wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is emerging as a prime candidate to test the open market next year. Lucknow Super Giant will look to offload him after a dismal show in this year's edition. Should he enter the auction pool, his availability would undoubtedly trigger a massive bidding war among franchises desperate for a marquee Indian captain and middle-order enforcer.
Ajinkya Rahane (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Ajinkya Rahane faces intense scrutiny following a turbulent season where his team sat near the bottom before a late-stage surge. Rahane's individual returns have been notably under-par, posting a batting average under 23 across 13 matches. Consequently, management is heavily considering a leadership change and a strategic shift toward a more explosive top-order setup for next year.
