As Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises shift from the high-intensity auction phase to long-term squad management, the focus has shifted to a lesser-known but important mechanism – the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP). Although it rarely makes headlines, RAPP plays a decisive role after the auction ends, serving as the sole source for franchises looking for replacement players during the season.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally circulated the RAPP list to all IPL franchises, underscoring its importance as teams prepare contingency plans ahead of the 2026 season.
The replacement pool includes more than 1,300 unsold players
According to the BCCI, the RAPP includes 1,307 players who had registered for the IPL auction held in Abu Dhabi on December 16 but remained unsold. These players have completed the auction process and are now the only eligible options for mid-season replacement.
If a franchise faces injuries, withdrawals or releases during the season, they must choose replacements strictly from this list. Players from outside the RAPP, regardless of availability or reputation, cannot be added to the squad after the auction window closes.
RAPP features star international names
Despite not being sold in the auction, several high-profile international cricketers feature prominently in the RAPP. Former captain of Australia steve smith One of the most notable names, providing the franchise with a proven option when they need middle-order experience.
England players Jonny Bairstow, Reece Topley and Jamie Smith are also part of the pool. New Zealand all-rounders Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell in particular add further quality for teams looking for balance in their eleven.
His inclusion highlights how tactical considerations, salary constraints and foreign additions in the auction can leave even established international players without a contract.
Capped Indian players add depth to pool
RAPP is equally important for the depth of Indian talent. A number of capped domestic players with international experience are available as replacement options. Names like Umesh Yadav, Mayank Agarwal, Vijay Shankar, Karn Sharma, KS Bharat, Deepak Hooda, Navdeep Saini and Chetan Sakariya are listed.
The reserve price of these Indian players ranges between ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore, making them viable and experienced options for teams battling injuries during the season.
BCCI sets clear financial and contractual rules
BCCI has also put in place strict guidelines to control the use of RAPP. The franchise is not allowed to sign any replacement player at a fee lower than the reserve price declared by that player at the time of the auction. This ensures fairness and prevents devaluation after the auction.
Additionally, while franchises are allowed to include RAPP players as net bowlers during the season, such arrangements do not confer any preferential rights. Teams will still need to follow standard substitution protocols if they wish to add the player to their registered squad.
KKR turns to RAPP after Mustafizur Rahman’s release
RAPP’s relevance has come into sharp focus with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) actively looking for a replacement following his release. Mustafizur Rahman. As per the rules, the three-time champions can now select replacements only from the RAPP list.
His decision will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how franchises use the pool during the season.
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RAPP’s quiet but important role in IPL 2026
Although it operates largely behind the scenes, RAPP is a vital pillar of IPL team management. With plans often disrupted due to injuries, workload management and international commitments, RAPP ensures franchises maintain competitive balance while following transparent rules.
As IPL 2026 approaches, this unnamed list could once again shape the fortunes of the teams long after the auction hammer falls.
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