New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has been released by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, making him one of the most notable names in the market. CSK parted ways with Ravindra, along with Devon Conway and Matheesha Pathirana, while trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran for Sanju Samson.
The franchise had earlier invested heavily in the 26-year-old, signing him for INR 1.8 crore in 2024 and retaining him for INR 4 crore in 2025 through the RTM card. Ravindra scored
191 runs in IPL 2025. Despite his release, Ravindra’s skill set makes him a strong auction prospect. Teams needing a solid top-order batter and a secondary spin option are likely to show interest, keeping the youngster in demand.
Here are 3 teams that could start a bidding war for Rachin Ravindra at IPL 2026 Auction
3. Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals are expected to show strong interest in New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra at the IPL 2026 mini-auction as they look to strengthen their top order. After a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, where their powerplay batting remained a major weakness, DC released both Jake Fraser-McGurk and Faf du Plessis. With INR 21.80 crore in their purse and multiple overseas slots available, the franchise is exploring impactful top-order options.
Ravindra, released by CSK after scoring 222 runs in 2024 and 191 runs in 2025, provides attacking left-handed batting along with left-arm spin options. His ability to provide solid starts makes him a strong contender to partner KL Rahul at the top.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders
Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders are the team that could start a bidding war for Rachin Ravindra at the IPL 2026 auction. Having released Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, and Andre Russell, KKR enters the auction with a huge purse of INR 64.30 crore and clear gaps at the top and in the all-rounder department.
Despite an underwhelming IPL 2025, his performances for New Zealand, including a breakout 2023 ODI World Cup and a Player-of-the-Tournament run in the 2025 Champions Trophy, make him a reliable overseas player. His attacking batting makes him an ideal partner for Sunil Narine, while his left-arm spin abilities, alongside Varun Chakaravarthy, will make KKR's bowling attack more clinical.
1. Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings may have released Rachin Ravindra ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, but he can once again reunite with his former team. With the franchise trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to the Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Sanju Samson, CSK now lacks a spin-bowling all-rounder, an area where Rachin can be a long-term prospect. The young all-rounder had an underwhelming 2025 season, scoring just 191 runs in eight matches at a strike rate of 128.19, which led to his release.
However, with Ayush Mhatre seen as a strong opening option and a hefty purse of INR 43.40 crore available, CSK might view Rachin as a cost-effective buy-back option. Many fans and experts believe he could have been retained, especially after Jadeja’s exit. As the auction approaches, it wouldn’t be surprising if CSK attempts to secure Rachin again and groom him into an important future asset.
