The IPL 2026 season is already generating a lot of excitement, especially after the announcement of the list of players released by the teams. Every year, some surprising names enter the auction pool, and many of them become the subject of intense bidding on auction day.
This year is no different. Several experienced players and rising stars have suddenly found themselves without a team, but this also increases the likelihood of them attracting big bids.
Here’s a look at 10 such released players who could fetch big money at the IPL 2026 auction.
1. Venkatesh Iyer (Released by KKR)
Venkatesh Iyer is known for his clean hitting and useful medium-pace bowling. Even though he is released, teams looking for a strong all-rounder may go after him. His ability to open the batting and accelerate quickly makes him a valuable option in T20 cricket.
2. Akash Deep (Released by LSG)
Akash Deep has impressed with his pace and accuracy. He can bowl well in the powerplay and also handle pressure in the death overs. Many teams searching for a young Indian fast bowler may target him during the auction.
3. Rajvardhan Hangargekar (Released by LSG)
Hangargekar is a rising fast-bowling all-rounder. He brings aggression, raw speed, and big hitting in the lower order. His potential makes him a strong contender to receive a big bid from teams looking for future stars.
4. Mahipal Lomror (Released by GT)
Mahipal Lomror is a handy left-handed batter and a part-time spin bowler. He has played valuable cameos in the middle order in the past. His ability to handle spin makes him a good fit for many teams struggling with middle-order stability.
5. Kuldeep Sen (Released by PBKS)
Kuldeep Sen is known for his extra pace and wicket-taking ability. He can trouble batters with bounce and seam movement. Teams that need a fiery backup pacer may show strong interest in him.
6. Rahul Tripathi (Released by CSK)
Rahul Tripathi has always been a quick scorer, especially in the powerplay. His fearless batting and ability to attack from ball one make him an attractive option. A franchise needing aggressive top-order runs may bid heavily for him.
7. Abhinav Manohar (Released by SRH)
Abhinav Manohar is a solid finisher who can hit big shots in the last overs. He has shown he can stay calm under pressure, which is rare for young uncapped players. Many teams need a reliable Indian finisher, and he fits that role perfectly.
8. Ravi Bishnoi (Released by LSG)
Ravi Bishnoi is one of the most promising young spinners in India. His googlies and fast leg-spin variations make him hard to play. Despite being uncapped, he already has high value. Several teams may start a bidding war to secure him.
9. Kumar Kartikeya (Released by RR)
Kumar Kartikeya is a smart left-arm spinner who controls runs and takes wickets at key times. His variety and calm nature make him a reliable option. Teams wanting a strong Indian spinner may target him.
10. Mayank Agarwal (Released by RCB)
Mayank Agarwal brings experience, technique, and leadership. He is a steady top-order batter who can anchor the innings. His calm style and experience could make him a valuable signing for teams needing stability at the top.
Final Thoughts
The IPL 2026 Auction will be exciting, especially because so many talented uncapped players are now available. Even though they were released, all of them offer special skills that teams look for in T20 cricket.
With multiple franchises rebuilding their squads, these ten players could easily attract big bids and become major talking points on auction day.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the meaning of “uncapped player” in IPL?
An uncapped player is a cricketer who has not yet made his senior international debut for India. Even if someone has been playing IPL or domestic cricket for years, he remains uncapped until he plays international cricket.
Q2. Why do franchises target uncapped players at high prices?
Because uncapped players provide:
- Less salary cap pressure
- Long-term team investment value
- Higher hunger and motivation
- Domestic quota advantage in playing XI
- Combined, they make them strategically priceless.
Q3. Will the IPL 2026 Auction favour bowlers or batters more?
With multiple batting-friendly venues, the demand for quality Indian bowlers is high. This is especially true for spinners and death bowlers.
