IPL 2026 Retentions: Maxwell Set for Release, Mayank in Line to Stay as Deadline Approaches
Franchises fine tune squads ahead of the IPL 2026 deadline, with Punjab likely to release Maxwell and LSG backing an injury recovered Mayank Yadav.
India, Nov 15 : IPL 2026 Retentions: Teams Brace for Big Calls as Deadline Approaches
With less than 24 hours left for the ten IPL teams to finalise their IPL 2026 retentions, franchises are deep in discussions, focusing more on refining their squads than opting for wholesale changes.
Multiple sources told IANS that Punjab Kings are set to release Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Hardie, and Kyle Jamieson the latter brought in as Lockie Ferguson’s mid-season replacement during IPL 2025, where PBKS finished runners-up. However, Mitch Owen, who replaced Maxwell after his injury, is likely to be retained.
LSG to Retain Mayank Yadav Despite Injury Layoff
Lucknow Super Giants have reportedly decided to retain pace sensation Mayank Yadav, despite his limited availability over two seasons. Retained earlier for ₹11 crore, Mayank played only two matches in IPL 2025 before a recurring back injury required surgery.
“Mayank has resumed training and started bowling at the BCCI CoE in Bengaluru. He is expected to be fully fit by late December or early January, clearing doubts over his IPL 2026 availability,” a source confirmed.
However, LSG are likely to release Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, and Shamar Joseph into the auction pool.
KKR Considering Venkatesh Iyer Release; Rana Trade in Talks
Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders could release Venkatesh Iyer, with a plan to buy him back at the mini-auction in Abu Dhabi (December 15 or 16). KKR are also in advanced talks with Rajasthan Royals for a potential one-way trade involving Nitish Rana.
KKR are likely to part ways with Quinton de Kock and Anrich Nortje, though Ajinkya Rahane could be retained. Discussions with Delhi Capitals over a possible KL Rahul trade remain inconclusive.
Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians Set for Key Exits
Delhi Capitals may release pacer T. Natarajan and openers Jake Fraser-McGurk and Faf du Plessis, alongside several uncapped players who saw limited action.
Mumbai Indians, after bringing in Shardul Thakur and Sherfane Rutherford via trades, are expected to release Will Jacks.
RCB, CSK Planning Significant Player Exits
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru could let go of Liam Livingstone, Blessing Muzarabani, Yash Dayal, and Rasikh Dar.
Chennai Super Kings in the spotlight following talk of a mega trade involving Sanju Samson for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran — may release Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Jamie Overton.
As the IPL 2026 retention deadline approaches, teams are balancing squad stability with strategic reshuffling — setting the stage for an action-packed mini-auction.
