With over half of IPL 2025 matches concluded, speculation about player movements for the 2026 season intensifies. Several high-profile cricketers face uncertain futures due to injuries, poor form, or team dynamics. Here’s a look at 10 players who might don new jerseys next year, based on recent developments.
1. Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)
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Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson could part ways after reported tensions with management. A viral video showed him declining to join a team meeting during a Super Over, hinting at a rift. Despite Rahul Dravid’s clarification, sources suggest Samson’s dissatisfaction. Chennai Super Kings, who previously approached him, may capitalize on this, potentially luring him for 2026.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad (Chennai Super Kings)
Chennai Super Kings’ captain Ruturaj Gaikwad faces scrutiny after an alleged elbow injury sidelined him, only for reports to surface of him playing football. Speculation points to a strategic move by CSK to reinstate MS Dhoni as captain. Gaikwad’s refusal to take responsibility for tactical decisions, like Dhoni batting at No. 9, adds fuel. His underwhelming form may see him leave CSK.
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3. Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)
Mumbai Indians’ star Rohit Sharma, despite solid batting, feels sidelined. No longer captain, he’s often benched as an Impact Player during fielding and ignored by coach Mahela Jayawardene and skipper Hardik Pandya. After leading India to two global titles, Rohit’s lack of influence in MI’s setup may push him to seek a team valuing his leadership and insights.
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4. Glenn Maxwell (Punjab Kings)
Punjab Kings’ Glenn Maxwell has disappointed, scoring just 41 runs in six matches at a 100 strike rate. Labelled a “holidaymaker” by Virender Sehwag, Maxwell’s consistent IPL struggles contrast with his international form. Likely to be released, he’ll hunt for another franchise, banking on his Australian credentials.
5. Liam Livingstone (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
RCB’s Liam Livingstone mirrors Maxwell’s woes, managing 87 runs in seven matches at a 17 average. His finishing and bowling contributions have been negligible, dragging RCB’s campaign. Sehwag’s critique of his lackluster effort suggests Livingstone may struggle to secure a high-value contract next season.
6. Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders)
KKR’s Venkatesh Iyer, with 121 runs in seven matches at a 24 average, has underperformed. Despite KKR’s strong season, Iyer’s inconsistency makes him a liability. While KKR might retain him at a lower price, his future remains uncertain, with fans debating his role.
7. Mohammed Shami (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami’s IPL 2025 has been lackluster, with five wickets in seven matches at a 10 economy rate. His struggles have cost Sunrisers Hyderabad crucial games, raising questions about his fitness and form. Hyderabad’s planned bowling overhaul could see Shami seeking a new team.
8. Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)
Gujarat Titans’ Kagiso Rabada played only two matches before returning to South Africa for personal reasons. His recurring absence from IPL, coupled with inconsistent international form, frustrates teams. Rabada’s brief stint may prompt Gujarat to release him, forcing a team switch.
9. Ishan Kishan (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Ishan Kishan, signed for his explosive batting, scored 138 runs in seven matches at a 27 average. After a promising debut, his form dipped, echoing his Mumbai Indians struggles. With SRH prioritizing current international stars like Abhishek Sharma, Kishan faces an uncertain future.
10. Anrich Nortje (Kolkata Knight Riders)
KKR’s Anrich Nortje, plagued by injuries, played one match, taking a single wicket at a 7 economy rate. His fitness issues, evident since his Delhi Capitals days and South Africa’s Champions Trophy, hurt KKR’s plans. Nortje’s likely release stems from exploiting IPL’s loophole, securing full payment for minimal participation.
Read more: Top 5 Highest Run Chases in IPL History | SRH, PBKS, MI, RR Make the List
As IPL 2026 approaches, these players’ futures hinge on auctions and team strategies. Fans await whether new teams will revive their fortunes or if these stars will fade from the IPL spotlight.