The 2026 IPL mini auction is expected to take place between December 13 and 15. While the interest levels are usually higher ahead of mega auctions, the fans
are waiting for the upcoming mini auction with bated breath. This is because some of the most successful teams in the auction's history are looking to make wholesale changes to their side.
Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK), inaugural champions Rajasthan Royals (RR), and three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) did not have a great time last season. KKR, RR, and CSK finished eighth, ninth, and 10th, respectively, last year.
According to reports, these three teams could let go of quite a few players from their line-ups and rope in new ones. Other teams could also head into the auction with big budgets and make some prized signings.
There have been reports of KKR looking to release talismanic all-rounder Andre Russell into the auction. He has been in KKR since the 2014 season. The Rajasthan Royals are also in line to release Sanju Samson. Delhi Capitals (DC) reportedly wanted Rinku Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in exchange for KL Rahul.
Even if some of these changes go through, it could immensely change the complexion of the teams involved.
Franchises may also make decisions based on brand/market/pitch conditions rather than just player stats. For example, investing in specific types of players (spin vs pace, domestic vs foreign) according to home ground or future seasons.
A team like CSK have always relied on experienced players. However, after failing to reach the playoffs for two seasons in a row for the first time in IPL history, they could ditch that policy and acquire young talent. Youngsters like Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis were among the star performers for them last season. This change of policy could come as a shocker for many fans.
The franchise's goals may be shifting as well, from short-term trophy hunt to building a stable core that can give them success consistently in the long run.
