With the deadline to retain IPL 2026 just two weeks away, the cricket world is abuzz with major trade rumours. The biggest buzz is about Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, with many teams reportedly showing keen interest in the Rajasthan Royals captain.
Despite the ups and downs in international cricket this year including the Asia Cup 2025 and the ongoing Australia series, Sanju Samson’s IPL reputation is keeping his value sky high. His ability to turn a game and his calm leadership are widely admired across franchises.
Rajasthan Royals have to take a big decision on Sanju Samson, Mahesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga.
According to a Cricbuzz report, Samson’s fate will be decided in the next few days as Rajasthan Royals principal owner Manoj Badale is scheduled to reach Mumbai to finalize the team’s retention strategy. His arrival may also resolve the ongoing debate regarding some other names in the Royals team.
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Yes, it is about the Sri Lankan spin pair Mahesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga. Earlier, both Theekshana and Hasaranga were finalized for release from the team ahead of the IPL 2026 auction when Rahul Dravid was the head coach.
Since Dravid has resigned as RR head coach and Kumar Sangakkara is back in control of cricket operations, Rajasthan Royals cannot release Thekshana and Hasaranga.
Sunrisers Hyderabad rejected several trade offers for Mohammed Shami
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has made it clear that Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami is not going anywhere. The franchise reportedly received several trade offers for the experienced Indian pacer, but he turned them all down, favoring Shami’s ability to perform well at crucial moments.
The Indian bowler had a poor IPL 2025 season, taking only 6 wickets in 9 matches for SRH. Despite this, Sunrisers Hyderabad is not leaving the Indian fast bowler. Shami’s leadership in the bowling department is being considered irreplaceable by the SRH camp.
Elsewhere, other franchises including Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are expected to announce a series of releases ahead of the November 15 deadline, with the IPL 2026 auction set to take place in December.
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Abu Dhabi emerges as frontrunner to host IPL 2026 auction
Meanwhile, there is going to be a big twist in the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, as the event is likely to be held outside India this year. BCCI is reportedly leaning towards the Gulf region as the preferred venue. With UAE’s Abu Dhabi emerging as the most likely venue, other Middle Eastern countries like Oman and Qatar are also being explored as possible options for the auction.
Initially, the BCCI had planned to host the auction in India, but finding a suitable venue has been difficult. Indeed, the December 13-15 window for the IPL 2026 auction falls right in the middle of India’s festive and wedding season, which has created scheduling and logistics challenges.
As a result, moving the auction abroad seems to be a more convenient and practical option. BCCI is expected to officially confirm the venue and date by November 15, the same deadline for all franchises to submit the list of retained and released players.
