From Andre Russell to Liam Livingstone: 5 shocking releases ahead of IPL 2026 auction
All ten IPL teams released major players ahead of the auction. Now, let’s look at the five biggest names released by the franchises
Andre Russell – 12 crore (KKR) ($1.44 million approx)
KKR released Andre Russell after an inconsistent last two seasons. His power-hitting and death-overs bowling didn’t have the same impact. With 12 crore freed, KKR move on, while Russell re-enters the auction hoping for a new role.
Venkatesh Iyer – 23.75 crore (KKR) ($2.85 million approx)
Venkatesh Iyer, released at 23.75 crore, struggled for consistency with both bat and ball. His strike rate dipped and his medium pace wasn’t used much. KKR chose to rebuild, putting a top-order all-rounder back into the auction.
Matheesha Pathirana – 13 crore (CSK) ($1.56 million approx)
CSK let go of Matheesha Pathirana after a tough season where injuries and a drop in rhythm affected his yorkers and slower balls. Once a strong death-overs bowler, he now returns to the auction pool at 13 crore.
Ravi Bishnoi – 11 crore (LSG) ($1.32 million approx)
LSG released Ravi Bishnoi despite his wickets in the middle overs. His economy rate went up last season, and teams targeted him more. At 11 crore, LSG open space for changes, while Bishnoi becomes a key spinner in the auction.
Liam Livingstone – 8.75 crore (RCB) ($1.05 million approx)
RCB moved on from Liam Livingstone after a quiet run with both bat and ball. His hitting didn’t come off regularly and his mix of off-spin and leg-spin wasn’t used much. Released at 8.75 crore, he goes back into the auction pool.
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