IPL 2026: One ignored player from each team who deserves a spot in playing XI

The 19th edition of the Indian Premier Leagueis currently underway, and while a few teams have stamped their authority early in the tournament, others are still searching for their first win. The competition has already showcased a mix of dominant performances and underwhelming outings, highlighting the importance of team balance and selection.

Even teams that remain unbeaten cannot afford complacency, as minor loopholes in their playing XI could prove costly in the later stages. They should address

these gaps by giving opportunities to overlooked players that could make a significant difference.

Here are the ignored players from each team who deserve a place in the playing XI:

Akeal Hosein (Chennai Super Kings)

For Chennai Super Kings, West Indies spinner Akeal Hoseincould be a valuable addition. While Noor Ahmad impressed in the previous edition by finishing as one of the leading wicket-takers, he has struggled to replicate that form this season. Hosein, with his left-arm spin and ability to contribute with the bat in the lower order, offers a more balanced option.

Prithvi Shaw (Delhi Capitals)

At Delhi Capitals, Prithvi Shawremains a notable omission. He is known for his aggressive batting style and can provide explosive starts at the top of the order. Given his strong performances in domestic cricket, he deserves a chance to partner Pathum Nissanka as an opener, with KL Rahul potentially slotting in at No. 3 to stabilise the innings.

Sai Kishore (Gujarat Titans)

For Gujarat Titans, left-arm spinner Sai Kishoreis an underrated asset. Having been among the top wicket-takers for the franchise in a previous season, his ability to control the middle overs makes him an ideal candidate. Alongside established names like Washington Sundar and Rashid Khan, Kishore can provide crucial breakthroughs and maintain pressure on opposition batters.

Rovman Powell (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Kolkata Knight Riders could benefit from the inclusion of Rovman Powell. The former West Indies captain is known for his finishing abilities and power-hitting in the death overs. With inconsistency from players like Rinku Singh and Ramandeep Singh, Powell’s presence could add much-needed firepower to the lower middle order.

Arjun Tendulkar (Lucknow Super Giants)

At Lucknow Super Giants, Arjun Tendulkaroffers a unique combination as a left-arm pacer and capable lower-order batter. While the team has relied on right-arm options like Mohammed Shami and Avesh Khan, Tendulkar’s variation could disrupt opposition plans and bring a fresh dynamic to the bowling unit.

Ashwani Kumar (Mumbai Indians)

For Mumbai Indians, left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumardeserves consideration. The team’s bowling unit has struggled despite the presence of experienced players like Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. Introducing Ashwani could provide balance and an alternative angle of attack, potentially revitalising the bowling lineup.

Musheer Khan (Punjab Kings)

Punjab Kings might look towards Musheer Khanas a replacement for Nehal Wadhera. Musheer, an all-rounder, can contribute both with the bat and ball, making him a versatile option in the middle order. His inclusion could bring stability and flexibility to the team composition.

Donovan Ferreira (Rajasthan Royals)

For Rajasthan Royals, Donovan Ferreiracould fill the gap in the middle order. With overseas combinations being reshuffled and injuries affecting the squad, Ferreira’s power-hitting ability can strengthen the finishing department and add depth to the batting unit.

Venkatesh Iyer (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru could consider bringing in Venkatesh Iyer. As an all-rounder capable of contributing in both batting and bowling, Iyer adds balance to the side. With RCB already showing good form, his inclusion could further enhance their chances of making a strong push for the title.

Zeeshan Ansari (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Sunrisers Hyderabad could benefit from introducing Zeeshan Ansari. He can pair with Harsh Dubey that would strengthen the spin department, especially in the middle overs. Ansari’s development as a bowler makes him a promising option who can trouble opposition batters.