The IPL 2026 auction witnessed record-breaking spending, with franchises investing heavily in overseas stars and promising domestic players.
However, several expensive acquisitions failed to deliver the expected returns, leaving their respective teams with important decisions ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.
While no official release list has been announced, six players could emerge as potential release candidates based on their performances, availability and value for money.
1. Cameron Green – KKR (Rs 25.20 crore)
Green was the most expensive player at the auction but finished IPL 2026 with 322 runs and seven wickets in 14 matches. Although his all-round contribution was reasonable, his returns were below expectations considering his record-breaking price. KKR could consider releasing him to free up a substantial portion of their auction purse.
2. Matheesha Pathirana – KKR (Rs 18 crore)
Pathirana endured a disastrous campaign, featuring in just one match and failing to take a wicket. He conceded nine runs in 1.2 overs before fitness concerns restricted his involvement. KKR may reconsider investing Rs 18 crore in a fast bowler whose availability remains a concern. The Sri Lankan’s injury concerns have been the biggest issue, and KKR may discard the pacer.
3. Prashant Veer – CSK (Rs 14.20 crore)
One of the biggest uncapped purchases, Veer managed 90 runs in six appearances without taking a wicket. While his potential remains considerable, CSK could reassess whether such a massive investment is justified after limited returns in his debut season.
4. Mustafizur Rahman – KKR (Rs 9.20 crore)
Mustafizur’s situation is different. He did not play in IPL 2026 because KKR released him following a BCCI instruction in January, before the season began. Therefore, he cannot technically be considered a post-season release candidate. His availability and franchise status would need to be reassessed separately.
5. Auqib Nabi – DC (Rs 8.40 crore)
Delhi Capitals invested heavily in the Jammu and Kashmir pacer, but he managed just 14 runs in five matches and failed to take a wicket. His bowling economy of 11.46 also highlights his difficulties at the highest level. DC could look for a more established bowling option and free up the big money that they paid for the India pacer.
6. Liam Livingstone – SRH (Rs 13 crore)
Livingstone managed only 15 runs in two appearances and failed to take a wicket. His explosive batting and all-round ability remain valuable, but such limited involvement makes his Rs 13 crore price difficult to justify, and SRH may well offload the England all-rounder before the IPL 2027 auction.