Comprehensive Guide to IPL 2026: Retained Players and Auction Strategies

IPL 2026: A New Era of Cricket Excitement

The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to captivate fans with its blend of top-notch cricket and entertainment. As we eagerly await the TATA IPL 2026, all 10 franchises have finalized their player retention and release lists, setting the stage for the December auction.

IPL 2026 Retained Players: A Closer Look

The retention window for IPL 2026 concluded on 15 November 2025, with a total of 173 players secured by their respective teams. Among these are 49 international players, highlighting the global appeal of the league. The 10 teams are now equipped with a cumulative budget of ₹237.55 crore to fill 77 remaining slots in their squads.

Understanding Squad Dynamics

Each franchise has carefully strategized its squad composition, considering factors such as squad size, salary cap, and available slots. Here's a detailed breakdown of each team's current position:

• Chennai Super Kings (CSK): With 16 players retained, including 4 from overseas, CSK has spent ₹81.60 crore, leaving ₹43.40 crore in their purse. Key players include MS Dhoni and Ruturaj Gaikwad.
• Delhi Capitals (DC): DC has retained 17 players, 3 of whom are overseas. With ₹103.20 crore already spent, they have ₹21.80 crore remaining. Key figures like KL Rahul and Axar Patel are part of their lineup.
• Gujarat Titans (GT): GT holds onto 20 players, including 4 overseas, with ₹112.10 crore spent, leaving ₹12.90 crore. Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan are among their prominent players.
• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Retaining 12 players, KKR has the highest remaining budget at ₹64.30 crore after spending ₹60.70 crore. Rinku Singh and Sunil Narine lead their squad.
• Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): LSG boasts 19 retained players, with 4 overseas. They've spent ₹102.05 crore, leaving ₹22.95 crore. Key players include Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram.
• Mumbai Indians (MI): With 20 retained players and 7 overseas, MI has expended ₹122.25 crore, holding just ₹2.75 crore. Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah are key assets.
• Punjab Kings (PBKS): PBKS retains 21 players, 6 of whom are overseas, with ₹113.50 crore spent and ₹11.50 crore left. Marcus Stoinis and Lockie Ferguson stand out.
• Rajasthan Royals (RR): RR has secured 16 players, including 7 overseas, with ₹108.95 crore spent, leaving ₹16.05 crore. Riyan Parag and Jofra Archer are notable players.
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): RCB's 17 retained players include 6 overseas, with a budget of ₹108.60 crore spent and ₹16.40 crore remaining. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt are central to their strategy.
• Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): SRH has retained 15 players, including 6 overseas, spending ₹99.50 crore and retaining ₹25.50 crore. Key contributors include Heinrich Klaasen and Pat Cummins.

The upcoming auction promises to be an exhilarating event as teams strategize to fill their remaining slots and fortify their squads for a competitive season ahead. With a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, IPL 2026 is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in cricket history.