TATA IPL 2026 Mini-Auction, scheduled for December, promises to be a defining moment for franchises as they strive to balance performance, purse management, and squad depth.
On JioStar’s TATA IPL 2026 ‘Retention Preview’, experts Matthew Hayden, Aaron Finch, and Subramaniam Badrinath shared their insights on possible retention decisions and auction strategies that could shape the teams’ fortunes next season.
Hayden discussed Mumbai Indians’ possible retention dilemma around Trent Boult, “Mumbai Indians have a very balanced playing eleven, but they face some tough decisions. Trent Boult has been exceptional, taking 22 wickets last season and making a strong impact in the powerplay. However, with his 12.5 crore price tag, the management might consider releasing him to potentially buy him back at a lower price. This move could free up funds to strengthen other areas of their squad while maintaining their core balance.”
On Gujarat Titans’ middle-order challenges, Hayden added, “Gujarat Titans have a fantastic top order with captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, who were the highest-scoring opening pair last season. However, their middle order struggled heavily, with only Jos Buttler performing consistently. This over-reliance on their openers became a clear weakness. In the mini-auction, GT should release underperforming players and those who didn’t get opportunities to rebuild their middle order effectively.”
Badrinath weighed in on Chennai Super Kings’ likely releases, “CSK has several Indian players likely to be released. Ravichandran Ashwin tops the list after his retirement, freeing up 9.5 crores. Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Rahul Tripathi are other probable releases, potentially adding another 10 crores. Rachin Ravindra could also be released, bringing their total purse increase to around 25 crores. This would give them significant funds for the upcoming auction.”
Analysing Mumbai Indians’ purse strategy, Badrinath remarked, “Mumbai Indians are five-time champions for a reason; they have a great mix of young talent. However, they need to address their backup players. If I were in their camp, I would consider releasing two bowlers: Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar. Releasing and potentially buying them back could free up funds to strengthen their bench strength with quality backups.”
Finch focused on Kolkata Knight Riders’ tough call regarding Venkatesh Iyer, “Paying 23.75 crore is too high for a player like Venkatesh Iyer, who has been used out of position as a middle-order batter without utilising his bowling. While Venkatesh Iyer has been a match-winner for KKR, being their top scorer in 2021 and helping them lift the trophy in 2024, his inconsistent role and high price tag don’t align. KKR should consider releasing him to free up funds and potentially buy him back at a more reasonable price that matches his current role in the team.”
The experts agreed that the IPL 2026 mini-auction could see several franchises take bold steps to recalibrate their squads while strategically managing finances and future team balance.
