The cricket world is buzzing with excitement as the Indian Premier League prepares for another thrilling season.
After RCB finally broke their trophy drought in 2025, fans are eager to see what changes await in 2026.
The pre-auction trade window has opened, and franchises are already making strategic moves to strengthen their squads.
Trading has become a crucial part of IPL team building. It allows franchises to swap players, make cash deals, or exchange talent without going through the auction process.
This system gives teams more flexibility to address their weaknesses and build balanced squads.
The IPL 2026 trade players list is already creating waves among cricket enthusiasts. Some big names are being discussed, while others have confirmed their staying power with current teams.
From confirmed trades to ongoing negotiations, the landscape is shifting rapidly.
Understanding how these trades work can help fans appreciate the strategic thinking behind each move.
Teams consider factors like team balance, player form, leadership qualities, and budget constraints when making these decisions.
The trade window operates under specific rules and timelines that every franchise must follow.
Contents
- 1 IPL 2026 Trade Players List
- 1.1 Latest Trade Rumors – IPL 2026 (As of Sept 2025)
- 1.2 How and When IPL Players’ Trade Takes Place
- 1.3 Timing of Trading Windows
- 1.4 Eligibility for Player Trade
- 1.5 Types of Trades
- 1.6 List of Expected Trade Players for IPL 2026
- 1.7 Sanju Samson Will Stay with RR in IPL 2026 – Trade Rumors Shut Down
- 1.8 Venkatesh Iyer to RCB
- 1.9 Glenn Maxwell to LSG or CSK
- 1.10 Liam Livingstone to MI or LSG
- 1.11 Rishabh Pant to MI
- 1.12 Sam Curran to GT
- 1.13 Kamindu Mendis to GT
- 1.14 What’s the Deal with IPL 2026 Trades?
- 1.15 Conclusion: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
- 1.16 Authority Sources for IPL Trade Information
IPL 2026 Trade Players List
As we dive deeper into this guide, you’ll discover which players might switch teams, how the trading system works, and what these moves mean for the upcoming season. Get ready for an inside look at the business side of cricket!
Latest Trade Rumors – IPL 2026 (As of Sept 2025)
The cricket rumor mill is working overtime as September 2025 brings fresh speculation about player movements. Here are the most talked-about trade discussions currently making headlines:
| Player | Current Team | Rumored Destination | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | Rajasthan Royals | Staying with RR | Confirmed |
| KL Rahul | Lucknow Super Giants | Delhi Capitals | Under Discussion |
| Devdutt Padikkal | Rajasthan Royals | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Likely Trade |
| Arshdeep Singh | Punjab Kings | Mumbai Indians | On MI’s Radar |
| Shivam Dube | Current Team | Royal Challengers Bangalore | RCB Interest |
The most significant development involves Sanju Samson. Despite rumors linking him to Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals have officially shut down all trade discussions. The franchise has made it clear that their captain is going nowhere.
Other players creating buzz include:
- KL Rahul: Delhi Capitals are showing strong interest, but LSG values his leadership
- Devdutt Padikkal: An all-cash deal with SRH seems increasingly likely
- Arshdeep Singh: MI’s fast bowling needs make him an attractive target
- Internal GT-CSK Talks: Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan discussions continue
These rumors highlight how teams are already planning their strategy for the upcoming season. The trade window allows franchises to address gaps without waiting for the auction.
How and When IPL Players’ Trade Takes Place
The IPL operates under a structured trading system that ensures fairness and transparency. Understanding this system helps fans appreciate why certain deals happen while others don’t materialize.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has established clear guidelines that all franchises must follow. These rules prevent chaos and ensure that trading benefits the league’s overall competitiveness.
Key Trading Principles:
- Only specific players are eligible for trading
- Trades must happen within designated windows
- Both franchises must agree to all terms
- Financial fair play rules apply
- Player consent is sometimes required
The system balances team needs with player rights. It also ensures that successful franchises can’t simply buy their way to dominance by accumulating all the best players.
Timing of Trading Windows
The IPL calendar includes two distinct periods when trades can occur. Understanding these windows helps explain why certain deals happen at specific times.
Pre-Auction Trade Window:
- Opens approximately one week after the IPL season ends
- Remains active until one week before the player auction
- Allows teams to reshape squads before new player purchases
- Most active trading period with maximum flexibility
Post-Auction Trade Window:
- Opens immediately after the player auction concludes
- Stays active until one month before the next season begins
- Limited scope as teams finalize their squads
- Usually involves minor adjustments rather than major moves
The pre-auction window sees the most activity because teams can still purchase replacement players if needed. The post-auction window is more restrictive since squads are nearly complete.
Timeline Example for IPL 2026:
| Period | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | Season Ends | – |
| May-Nov 2025 | Pre-Auction Trading | 6 months |
| December 2025 | Player Auction | 2-3 days |
| Jan-Feb 2026 | Post-Auction Trading | 2 months |
| March 2026 | Season Begins | – |
Eligibility for Player Trade
Not every player can be traded between franchises. The IPL has specific eligibility criteria that determine which players are available for trading.
Eligible Players:
- Players retained by their franchise before the auction
- Contracted players who haven’t been released
- Players whose contracts allow trading clauses
- International players with proper work permits
Ineligible Players:
- Players purchased in the most recent auction
- Released players who are now free agents
- Players with no-trade clauses in contracts
- Injured players under specific medical conditions
This system ensures that teams can’t immediately flip auction purchases for profit. It encourages thoughtful squad building rather than speculative buying and selling.
The retention system plays a crucial role in determining eligibility. When a franchise retains a player, they’re essentially vouching for that player’s value to their long-term plans.
Types of Trades
IPL trades come in several formats, each serving different strategic purposes. Understanding these types helps explain why certain deals are structured in particular ways.
Cash-Only Trades:
- One team pays money to acquire a player
- Simple transaction with clear value assessment
- Often used for role players or squad fillers
- Allows selling team to increase auction budget
Player-for-Player Swaps:
- Direct exchange of players between teams
- Both franchises address different needs simultaneously
- No cash changes hands in pure swaps
- Requires players of roughly equal value
Cash-Plus-Player Deals:
- Combination of money and player exchange
- Used when player values don’t match exactly
- More complex but allows greater flexibility
- Common for star player acquisitions
Here’s how these trades typically work:
| Trade Type | Example | Benefits | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Only | Team A pays 5 crores for Player X | Clear valuation | Low |
| Player Swap | Player X for Player Y | Addresses both team needs | Medium |
| Cash + Player | Player X + 2 crores for Player Y | Flexible valuation | High |
List of Expected Trade Players for IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 trade players list features several high-profile names who could potentially switch teams. These moves could significantly impact the competitive balance of the league.
Current speculation focuses on both established stars and emerging talents. Teams are looking to address specific weaknesses while maintaining their core strengths.
Categories of Potential Trades:
- Confirmed Staying: Players whose teams have ruled out trades
- Active Negotiations: Players in serious trade discussions
- Speculative Interest: Players attracting preliminary inquiries
- Dark Horse Candidates: Unexpected potential movers
The diversity of players being discussed shows how dynamic the IPL ecosystem has become. From seasoned internationals to promising domestic talents, every player category is represented.
Sanju Samson Will Stay with RR in IPL 2026 – Trade Rumors Shut Down
The biggest trade story of September 2025 has reached a definitive conclusion. Sanju Samson will continue leading Rajasthan Royals, ending weeks of intense speculation about his future.
The rumors began when Samson posted a cryptic Instagram story featuring a yellow line and Tamil song. This immediately sparked connections to Chennai Super Kings, whose team color is yellow. The speculation intensified when reports suggested CSK’s concrete interest in the Kerala wicketkeeper-batsman.
Factors That Fueled the Rumors:
- Samson’s limited appearances in IPL 2025 (only 9 matches)
- RR’s poor performance (9th place finish)
- Riyan Parag occasionally captaining the team
- Samson’s relatively modest return of 285 runs with one fifty
However, Rajasthan Royals management moved quickly to dispel these rumors. A franchise source told the Times of India that Samson remains integral to their plans and continues as their undisputed captain.
The situation was further clarified when Samson met with RR’s Head of International Player Development, Siddhartha Lahiri. Their lunch meeting, documented on social media, sent a clear message about Samson’s commitment to the franchise.
Why RR Kept Samson:
- Leadership experience and maturity
- Local connection and fan following
- Proven track record as wicketkeeper-batsman
- Long-term captaincy succession planning
This decision reflects RR’s confidence in Samson’s ability to bounce back from a challenging season.
Venkatesh Iyer to RCB
Royal Challengers Bangalore are reportedly targeting Venkatesh Iyer as they look to strengthen their Indian batting core with a versatile all-round option.
Iyer’s 2025 season with Kolkata Knight Riders didn’t match expectations despite his record 24-crore price tag. As the highest-priced all-rounder in IPL history, the pressure was immense, but his performance fell short of justifying that investment.
Iyer’s Appeal to RCB:
- Left-handed batting adds variety to their lineup
- Can open the batting or play in the middle order
- Medium-pace bowling provides additional depth
- Proven domestic cricket record with Madhya Pradesh
Potential Trade Structure:
RCB would likely need to offer KKR a quality bowling asset in return. The franchise is known for their strong pace attack, which could interest KKR as they look to rebalance their squad.
The trade makes sense for both parties. KKR can recoup some value while addressing their bowling needs, while RCB gets the Indian batting stability they’ve long sought.
Why This Trade Could Work:
- RCB needs Indian batting depth
- KKR wants bowling reinforcement
- Iyer fits RCB’s aggressive playing style
- Both teams benefit from the exchange
Glenn Maxwell to LSG or CSK
After three disappointing seasons across different franchises, Glenn Maxwell might be ready for a fresh start. Both Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings have emerged as potential destinations for the Australian all-rounder.
Maxwell’s recent struggles with RCB and Punjab Kings have been well-documented. Despite his reputation as a game-changer, consistency has remained elusive in the IPL environment.
Maxwell’s Current Situation:
- Three poor seasons with limited impact
- Teams questioning his value for money
- Still possesses match-winning ability
- Experience in Indian conditions
Why LSG and CSK Are Interested:
Lucknow Super Giants:
- Need an overseas match-winner in their middle order
- Lack power-hitting options in crucial situations
- Can offer him a specific role and backing
- Have budget flexibility for such acquisitions
Chennai Super Kings:
- Master at reviving careers of experienced players
- MS Dhoni’s mentorship could help Maxwell
- Team culture emphasizes collective responsibility
- Track record of maximizing player potential
PBKS might be willing to trade Maxwell to free up their salary cap and pursue other options. A cash deal or promising Indian talent could facilitate this move.
Liam Livingstone to MI or LSG
Liam Livingstone’s future with Royal Challengers Bangalore appears uncertain after a disappointing 2025 season. The English all-rounder managed just one fifty throughout the campaign and failed to justify his selection.
RCB’s acquisition of consistent performers like Romario Shepherd and Tim David has further reduced Livingstone’s importance to the team. The franchise is reportedly open to trading him for the right offer.
Livingstone’s Strengths:
- Explosive batting capability in T20 format
- Can bowl useful off-spin in middle overs
- Flexibility to bat anywhere in the order
- Experience in various T20 leagues worldwide
Mumbai Indians Interest:
MI had a mixed 2025 season and are actively seeking middle-order firepower. Livingstone’s ability to change games single-handedly aligns with their requirements for impact players.
Lucknow Super Giants Appeal:
LSG’s batting lineup needs more explosive options. Livingstone could provide the X-factor they’ve been missing in crucial moments.
Potential Trade Scenarios:
| Team | What They Offer | What They Get | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|---|
| MI | Indian fast bowler + cash | Livingstone | High |
| LSG | Cash deal | Livingstone | Medium |
Rishabh Pant to MI
Perhaps the most ambitious trade rumor involves Rishabh Pant potentially moving to Mumbai Indians. This speculation gained traction despite LSG’s record-breaking 27-crore investment in the wicketkeeper-batsman.
Pant’s 2025 season with LSG was largely disappointing, with only a final-match century providing highlights. The pressure of justifying his price tag seemed to affect his natural aggressive approach.
Mumbai Indians’ Interest:
- Seeking a long-term Indian leader and finisher
- Impressed by Pant’s fearless batting philosophy
- Need a dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman
- Can offer leadership opportunities
Challenges to This Trade:
- LSG’s massive financial investment in Pant
- Would require a blockbuster offer from MI
- Might involve multiple players and cash
- Pant’s preference for staying would matter
Potential Trade Structure:
Any deal would need to match Pant’s star power and market value. MI might need to offer their top Indian talents plus substantial cash to make LSG consider such a move.
Why It Could Happen:
- MI’s track record of maximizing player potential
- Better team balance and support system
- Reduced individual pressure in a stronger squad
- Championship-winning culture and mentality
Sam Curran to GT
Gujarat Titans are reportedly interested in adding Sam Curran’s dynamism to their squad after David Miller’s departure to LSG. The English all-rounder could provide the explosive batting and bowling flexibility that GT values.
Curran’s 2025 performance with Chennai Super Kings showcased his versatility with both bat and ball. His fearless lower-order batting and left-arm seam bowling make him an attractive proposition for any franchise.
Curran’s Value Proposition:
- Left-arm seaming option adds bowling variety
- Aggressive lower-order batting provides finishing power
- Experience in high-pressure situations
- Proven performer in T20 cricket globally
GT’s Requirements:
After losing Miller’s finishing ability, GT needs someone who can provide late-innings impact. Curran’s batting style and temperament fit this requirement perfectly.
His bowling also addresses GT’s need for pace bowling options, especially with left-arm variety that can trouble right-handed batsmen.
Kamindu Mendis to GT
Gujarat Titans are also eyeing Kamindu Mendis, the talented Sri Lankan all-rounder who gained attention for his unique ambidextrous spin bowling ability.
Mendis can bowl both left-arm orthodox and off-spin, making him a tactical nightmare for opposing batsmen. His adaptable batting style adds further value to any squad.
Mendis’ Unique Skills:
- Can bowl left-arm orthodox and off-spin
- Adaptable batting approach for different situations
- Young with significant potential for improvement
- Experience playing in Indian conditions
Limited SRH Exposure:
Despite playing only 5 matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mendis showed glimpses of his genuine talent. GT believes they can provide him with more opportunities to develop.
Strategic Fit with GT:
Pairing Mendis with Sai Kishore would give GT a formidable spin combination. The variety in bowling styles could prove crucial in T20 cricket’s tactical battles.
What’s the Deal with IPL 2026 Trades?
The trading system serves multiple purposes in the IPL ecosystem. It allows teams to fine-tune their squads without waiting for the auction, provides players with new opportunities, and keeps fan engagement high during the off-season.
Teams use trades strategically to address specific weaknesses or to create budget space for future acquisitions. The IPL 2026 trade players list reflects these various motivations and strategic considerations.
Benefits for Franchises:
- Address squad imbalances quickly
- Create salary cap flexibility
- Acquire players who fit team culture
- Avoid auction competition for specific targets
Benefits for Players:
- Opportunity for regular playing time
- Fresh start with new franchise
- Potentially better role definition
- Chance to prove worth in different environment
Fan Engagement:
Trades keep cricket discussions active during the off-season. Fans speculate about potential moves, debate the wisdom of different deals, and maintain emotional investment in their favorite teams.
The system also creates storylines that extend beyond the playing season, making the IPL a year-round entertainment property.
Strategic Considerations:
Teams must balance short-term gains with long-term planning. A trade that helps immediately might create problems in future seasons if not carefully considered.
Conclusion: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
The IPL 2026 trading landscape presents a fascinating mix of confirmed decisions and ongoing speculation. While Sanju Samson’s situation has been resolved definitively, several other high-profile moves remain in various stages of negotiation.
The trading system continues to evolve as franchises become more sophisticated in their approach. Teams are increasingly using analytics, cultural fit assessments, and long-term planning to guide their decisions.
Confirmed Developments:
- Sanju Samson staying with Rajasthan Royals
- Active discussions around KL Rahul’s future
- RCB’s interest in multiple all-rounders
- GT’s focus on adding dynamic players
Key Takeaways for Fans:
- Trades can happen quickly once negotiations begin
- Team needs drive most trading decisions
- Player performance directly impacts trade value
- Franchise loyalty still matters in many cases
The coming weeks will likely bring more clarity to these situations. As the trading deadline approaches, expect some last-minute surprises that could reshape the competitive landscape for IPL 2026.
Authority Sources for IPL Trade Information
For the most reliable and updated information about IPL trades, fans should check these official sources:
The IPL 2026 season promises to be exciting both on and off the field. These trade movements will play a crucial role in determining which teams emerge as championship contenders when the action begins.
Stay tuned for more developments as the trading window progresses and teams finalize their strategies for the upcoming season!
