IPL 2026: 5 Unexpected releases ahead of the auction

All IPL franchises have announced their final list of retained and released players ahead of the 2026 season. While some expected names were released and retained, a few decisions left fans surprised. These players were widely expected to continue with their teams because of their overall capabilities and the value they offered.

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Here are the five most unexpected releases ahead of the IPL 2026 auction.

1. Matheesha Pathirana (CSK, Rs 13.00 crore)

The young Sri Lankan pacer is known for his unique side-arm action, and over the last four IPL seasons, he has shown his skill at deceiving batters with changes of pace, especially in the death overs. For Chennai Super Kings (CSK), he picked up 47 wickets in 32 matches at an economy of 8.68.

However, in IPL 2025, despite taking 13 wickets, he went for runs at an economy of 10.13. Still, considering his uniqueness and current form, many expected CSK to retain him. Surprisingly, the franchise released him and freed up Rs 13 crore.

2. Andre Russell (KKR, Rs 12.00 crore)

This might be the most surprising release ahead of IPL 2026. Since 2014, veteran West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has been an integral part of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). But the franchise decided to let him go, shocking many fans.

Lack of consistency, form, and fitness issues likely influenced the decision. In IPL 2025, Russell struggled with both bat and ball. He scored only 167 runs in 10 innings and took eight wickets in nine innings at an expensive economy of 11.94. Therefore, his long association with KKR, for the last 11 seasons, came to an end.

3. Wanindu Hasaranga (RR, Rs 5.25 crore)

Rajasthan Royals (RR) fans expected that at least one of the two Sri Lankan spinners might be released, but the franchise let go of both Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana. The release of Hasaranga, however, surprised many.

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Hasaranga brings more all-round ability, being a quality white-ball spinner and a powerful lower-order batter. In IPL 2025, he took 11 wickets but failed with the bat, scoring only nine runs in five innings.

4. Rachin Ravindra (CSK, Rs 4.00 crore)

Another release that raised eyebrows among CSK fans was Kiwi batter Rachin Ravindra. Compared to 2024, his average improved in IPL 2025 (from 22.20 to 27.28), but his strike rate dropped (from 160.86 to 128.18). He can also be a useful part-time spinner, but he did not bowl at all in the last edition.

Considering his ability to bat at the top and offer some spin, many expected CSK to retain him. But the franchise ultimately decided to release him.

5. Josh Inglis (PBKS, Rs 2.60 crore)

Aussie wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis was expected to continue with Punjab Kings (PBKS) for IPL 2026. But the franchise still chose to release him despite a decent debut season in 2025. He scored 278 runs in 11 innings at an average of 30.88 and an impressive strike rate of 162.57, including one fifty.

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