As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches and the retention deadline of 15 November comes closer, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are preparing for a major squad shake-up. After a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where they finished ninth on the table, the franchise is ready to let go of several players who could not deliver as expected.
Along with the uncertainty around Sanju Samson future, reports suggest that RR will release a mix of overseas stars, underperformers, and players who cannot be retained due to IPL rules.
Here is the probable RR Released Player List for IPL 2026, based completely on the latest buzz.
1. Sanju Samson (Captain – Likely to be Released / Traded)
Sanju Samson long association with Rajasthan Royals looks set to end.
- The wicketkeeper-batter has reportedly asked the franchise to release him.
- RR and CSK are engaged in talks for a player-for-player trade, where RR want Ravindra Jadeja + one more player from CSK.
- Samson has played 11 seasons for RR and is their most successful captain, but tension with management has reportedly led to this decision.
If the trade is completed, Samson will be the biggest name RR release ahead of IPL 2026.
2. Shimron Hetmyer
RR retained Shimron Hetmyer for ₹11 crore in 2025, but he struggled with form.
- 239 runs in 14 matches
- Average: 21.72
- Strike Rate: 145.73
- Failed to finish matches consistently
Given his high price and low impact, RR are expected to release him and look for a fresh overseas finisher.
3. Tushar Deshpande
Signed for ₹6.50 crore, Tushar Deshpande could not justify his price tag.
- 9 wickets in 10 matches
- Economy above 10.60
- Lost his place in the final matches of the season
RR will likely release him to free up budget for a more reliable Indian pacer in the 2026 auction.
4. Lhuan-dre Pretorius (Cannot Be Retained Due to IPL Rules)
Pretorius joined RR as an injury replacement late in the season.
According to IPL’s retention rule:
Players signed as replacements after 12 league matches cannot be retained for the next season.
Since Pretorius joined at the final stage of IPL 2025, RR are not allowed to retain him, even if they want to.
They can still bid for him again in the auction.
5. Nandre Burger (Cannot Be Retained Due to IPL Rules)
Just like Pretorius, South African pacer Nandre Burger was added as a late injury replacement.
- He replaced Sandeep Sharma at a fee of ₹3.5 crore
- But because he was signed after IPL’s revised “replacement cut-off period,” he cannot be retained for IPL 2026.
RR may buy him again at a lower price, but officially, he must go into the auction pool.
RR Released Player List 2026 (Probable)
| Player | Reason for Release |
|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | Likely trade to CSK / player wants release |
| Shimron Hetmyer | High price, inconsistent finishing |
| Tushar Deshpande | Poor season, expensive economy |
| Luan-dre Pretorius | IPL rule – replacement not allowed for retention |
| Nandre Burger | IPL rule – replacement not allowed for retention |
Rajasthan Royals are heading toward a big rebuild ahead of IPL 2026. With Sanju Samson almost certain to leave, and several players set to be released due to form and rules, RR will enter the mini-auction with a clear strategy of forming a younger, more dynamic squad.
