The stage is set for IPL 2026, and the retention announcements are just around the corner. As the ten franchises gear up for the mini-auction, all eyes are on which players will be retained and who will be released into the auction pool. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the IPL Retention 2026.
Retention Deadline and Key Dates
The deadline for submitting the final list of retained and released players to the BCCI is November 15, 2025, at 5 PM IST. The official announcements are expected to be revealed at 5 PM IST on the same day. The IPL 2026 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. This marks the second consecutive year that the auction is being held overseas.
Retention Rules Explained
Unlike mega-auctions, the IPL 2026 season will feature a mini-auction, granting franchises greater flexibility in managing their existing squads. Teams can retain as many players as they wish, provided they adhere to the league's regulations. The key rules are:
- Squad Size: Each team must consist of 18-25 players.
- Salary Cap: The total spending must remain within the ₹120 crore salary cap.
- Overseas Players: Teams can retain a maximum of 8 overseas players in the squad.
What to Expect
With the retention deadline fast approaching, franchises are strategically evaluating their squads. Underperforming players, injury-prone players, and those with high salaries may be released to free up the purse for targeted acquisitions.
Several player trades have already taken place. All-rounder Shardul Thakur has been traded from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to Mumbai Indians (MI) for ₹2 crore. West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford has moved from Gujarat Titans (GT) to MI for ₹2.6 crore. There are also reports of Rajasthan Royals (RR) trading wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, though this hasn't been officially confirmed. Arjun Tendulkar is also expected to join Lucknow Super Giants.
Where to Watch
The IPL 2026 retention announcements will be broadcast live on the Star Sports network. The coverage will be available in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam, on Star Sports 2. Live streaming will also be available on the JioHotstar app and website for free. The live coverage is scheduled to begin at 5 PM IST.
Key Strategies for the Mini-Auction
The IPL 2026 mini-auction will focus on precision and smart squad-building. Teams will aim to strengthen their Indian core, add reliable middle-order options, and pick multi-skilled overseas all-rounders.
Trade Rules
Franchises are permitted to engage in player trades even after the retention deadline. The trading window is open until a week before the auction and reopens for 30 days before the next season. However, players acquired during the auction cannot be traded immediately afterward. Player consent is mandatory for all trades, and the BCCI oversees and approves all deals.
