IPL 2026 Auction: Stars Like Klaasen, Russell, Hetmyer Face Uncertainty As Franchises Rethink Strategy – Mashable India

With the IPL 2026 retention deadline approaching, teams are preparing to make some of the toughest decisions of the season. While this year isn’t a mega-auction year, the chatter around potential shock exits and unexpected retentions has taken over social media, fan forums, and expert discussions. Squads can technically be kept intact or revamped completely, but most franchises will walk the tightrope between rebuilding and preserving their core.
The 2026 IPL auction will take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. This will be the third successive year when the IPL auction is being held overseas. Like all mini auctions, the 2026 edition, too, will be a day-long exercise pic.twitter.com/EWWrYYDFsk — ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) November 13, 2025
Here are the biggest talking points as teams decide who stays and who goes.
Despite being one of SRH’s most valuable assets last season, Heinrich Klaasen finds himself in an interesting spot. Retained for a huge Rs 23 crore last year, he justified much of that value with 487 runs, a blistering strike rate above 170, and a memorable hundred against KKR.
However, his recent retirement from international cricket changes the equation. SRH may wonder whether his year-round cricket exposure, crucial for maintaining sharpness, will dip. If they believe he can be picked up again at a lower fee, a strategic release could be on the table.
At first glance, 191 runs in eight innings isn’t the kind of season that guarantees retention. Yet, CSK have long been known for nurturing players patiently. Rachin’s growing all-round utility, especially his left-arm spin, makes him an intriguing long-term asset, even if he doesn’t currently slot into CSK’s primary top order. With rumours swirling around Jadeja’s future, Rachin becomes even more valuable.
KKR may have some tough thinking to do. Though Quinton de Kock has been a giant of T20 cricket, his strike rate last season dipped below 130, and Kolkata already have an exciting like-for-like option in Rahmanullah Gurbaz. With age catching up and inconsistency creeping in, KKR might opt for youth and form.
Injuries have kept Shami off the field more than SRH would have liked. Yet, when fit, he is still among the best new-ball and death specialists in India. With a World Cup year approaching, SRH may want to bet on his comeback rather than risk another team reaping the rewards. Furthermore, reports suggest that LSG and DC have expressed their interest on the Indian pacer and he might be traded-off to either one of the two IPL franchises.
🚨 TRADE ALERT

Cricbuzz can confirm that Lucknow Supergiants and Delhi Capitals have shown interest in Mohammed Shami and there is a chance he may be traded to one of them pic.twitter.com/Cn3k34muc9 — Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) November 13, 2025
Andre Russell remains an IPL icon, but recent seasons show a decline, just 167 runs last year and a quiet CPL. KKR may consider releasing him and exploring fresher finishing options, though they could still attempt to bring him back at a more manageable price.
Despite limited game time post-IPL, Avesh’s skill at the death remains valuable, something LSG lack elsewhere. With uncertainty around Mayank Yadav and the possibility of Ravi Bishnoi exiting, Avesh becomes essential for balance and continuity.
RR trusted Hetmyer previously, but 2025 wasn’t his best year. With talk of Jadeja and Sam Curran possibly joining, Rajasthan may restructure their middle and lower order. Hetmyer could become collateral in that process.
CSK rarely make drastic changes, but after two seasons without playoffs, they need sharper calls. Pathirana, despite inconsistency, remains one of the most unique death bowlers in the league. With Ellis as backup, CSK can afford to let him find form again, and such bowlers often win titles when they click.
According to multiple reports, Ravindra Jadeja’s future with Chennai Super Kings remains uncertain as the franchise is said to be exploring a potential trade with Rajasthan Royals involving Sanju Samson. Several outlets have claimed that both teams have discussed a high-profile swap, with some versions of the deal also including an additional overseas player, a factor that has complicated the negotiations. The reports further suggest that Jadeja has shown interest in the move and may even be keen on taking up a leadership role at Rajasthan Royals if the trade materialises.
However, according to the same reports, the blockbuster deal has not been finalised due to financial and overseas-quota hurdles on RR’s side. Rajasthan are reportedly unable to proceed unless they free up an overseas slot and adjust their purse value, especially if Sam Curran is to be included in the exchange. As a result, the trade is currently stalled, and both players technically remain with their original franchises until an official announcement is made by the BCCI or either team.
SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma’s Future At Mumbai Indians Uncertain Ahead Of IPL 2026 Auction

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