With the IPL 2027 retention deadline approaching, franchises face crucial decisions regarding players who failed to meet expectations in the 2026 season.
Despite underwhelming performances, several high-profile players could still retain their places in their respective squads.
Their experience, match-winning abilities, past performances, and importance to team combinations may outweigh their recent struggles. As teams prepare for the upcoming auction, retaining these players could prove to be a strategic decision.
Here are the five players who may be retained by their respective franchises despite their dismal performances last season.
Nicholas Pooran (LSG)
Nicholas Pooran is likely to be retained by Lucknow Super Giants despite an underwhelming IPL 2026 season because of his proven match-winning ability and explosive batting potential. Retained for ₹21 crore, the West Indies batter managed 234 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 127.87, but his ability to change games single-handedly makes him a valuable asset.
With LSG reshaping their squad around captain Rishabh Pant, Pooran's experience and finishing skills could provide the middle order with much-needed firepower. His ability to accelerate against both pace and spin remains a major advantage, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Releasing a player of Pooran's calibre could also prove costly, as finding a replacement with similar power-hitting ability would be difficult. LSG may prefer to back him for another season, hoping he rediscovers the destructive form that made him one of the IPL's most feared batters.
Deepak Chahar (MI)
Mumbai Indians could opt to continue with Deepak Chahar despite his disappointing campaign in the 2026 edition. The right-arm pacer managed just eight dismissals across eight appearances, while his inability to maintain control proved costly for the franchise.
However, Chahar brings valuable domestic experience and the ability to generate movement with the new ball. His performances may have fallen short of expectations, but his skill set remains difficult to replace in the Indian fast-bowling market.
With a limited supply of established Indian seamers likely to be available at the auction, Mumbai could consider giving Chahar another opportunity rather than risk losing an experienced option.
Harshal Patel (SRH)
Harshal Patel endured a difficult IPL 2026 campaign, failing to claim a single dismissal in five appearances while conceding 148 runs from 13.4 overs. His inability to deliver effective variations during the closing stages exposed a weakness in Sunrisers Hyderabad's bowling attack.
Despite those disappointing returns, SRH may prefer to continue with the experienced Indian seamer. Recent squad changes, including the departures of Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis to Chennai Super Kings, have further reduced their pace-bowling resources.
Patel's experience in pressure situations and expertise in the final overs could make him a valuable option, encouraging SRH to give him another opportunity.
Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK)
Ruturaj Gaikwad had a modest IPL 2026 campaign, scoring 337 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 123.44. His returns fell short of expectations, particularly given his ₹18 crore price tag, and his slow scoring became a talking point during Chennai Super Kings' inconsistent season.
However, his importance to CSK extends beyond his batting numbers. As the franchise's established captain and a central figure in its long-term plans, Gaikwad remains a strong contender for retention despite the dip in form.
But the overhaul of Chennai's coaching setup with Stephen Fleming's coaching entourage could also trigger wider changes within the team. With a new coaching setup potentially bringing a fresh leadership vision, CSK may even consider a captaincy reshuffle, making Gaikwad's position worth watching.
Cameron Green (KKR)
Cameron Green had a decent IPL 2026 season, scoring 322 runs in 14 matches at an impressive strike rate of 145.70. He also took seven wickets, showcasing his abilities as a valuable all-rounder. Despite delivering some useful performances, his overall impact was affected by a persistent back injury that limited his bowling contributions.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a massive investment by acquiring Green for ₹25.20 crore, considering him a long-term successor to Andre Russell. The franchise believes his exceptional all-round abilities can play an important role in strengthening the team's balance. Releasing such a talented and expensive player after just one season could be a risky decision for the management.
KKR are therefore expected to retain Green for IPL 2027 and give him another opportunity to justify his hefty price tag. Head coach Abhishek Nayar and the team management may continue to back him, hoping he can overcome his injury concerns and deliver consistent performances with both bat and ball.
