The anticipation for the IPL has started to build again, after the broadcasters confirmed that they will reveal the retention lists for the 2026 season on 15 November.
JioCinema shared the date soon after the conclusion of the AUS vs IND T20I series, and that announcement has sparked a fresh round of debate among fans, who are already discussing who stays and whom teams could release. The reveal has arrived at the right moment, as teams now get a clear idea of their next steps before the auction.
Several reports indicate that they will likely hold the IPL 2026 auction in December. This expected gap gives the franchises a clear window to reassess their squads and sketch out their plans. A key point this year is that there seems to be no limit on the number of players a team can retain, which changes the usual structure. It raises curiosity, since some teams may choose to stick with their established core, while others may use this chance to rebuild.
Trade and Transfer Talk
There are already suggestions of trade discussions taking shape in the background. One rumour drawing attention involves the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.
The talk points to CSK showing interest in Sanju Samson, although the lack of official statements leaves everything open to interpretation. It remains hard to predict whether these talks will progress any further, though the speculation itself has kept supporters engaged.
Another reported discussion involves the Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, with KKR showing interest in KL Rahul. They appear to be searching for a senior figure who can guide the group and possibly handle leadership duties. Meanwhile, KKR may be set to move on from Venkatesh Iyer, whose price of 23.75 crore has become a subject of debate due to his recent form.
Recently, the WPL retention list also created a stir. The biggest surprise came when UP Warriorz released Deepti Sharma, and she will now enter the WPL 2025 auction. That development suggested that changes across Indian franchise cricket are unfolding at many levels, which sets up a compelling few weeks ahead.
