The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season is already generating buzz with the trading window in full swing. As teams strategize to build their dream squads, the trading period has brought exciting rumors, confirmed deals, and tactical reshuffles.
This article dives into the latest IPL 2026 trading updates for all 10 teams, offering fans a comprehensive look at player movements, potential blockbuster trades, and how franchises are preparing for the upcoming season. Stay ahead of the game with all the details you need to know!
What is the IPL 2026 Trading Window?
The IPL trading window is a critical phase where franchises can exchange players or acquire new talent before the mini-auction, set for early 2026. It opened on June 10, 2025, seven days after the IPL 2025 final, and will remain active until a week before the IPL 2026 auction. A second window will open post-auction and close 30 days before the season starts, likely around February 22, 2026.
Key rules include:
- Player Consent: No trade can occur without the player’s approval.
- Salary Cap: Teams must stay within the ₹151 crore cap for 2026.
- Squad Limits: Franchises must maintain 18-25 players, including up to eight overseas players.
- Overseas Players: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the player’s home board is required.
With these rules shaping team strategies, let’s explore the latest updates for each IPL franchise.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK): Eyeing Sanju Samson as Dhoni’s Successor
CSK is making headlines with their pursuit of Sanju Samson, the Rajasthan Royals captain, as a potential replacement for MS Dhoni, who may retire after IPL 2025. A senior CSK official confirmed interest, citing Samson’s skills as a wicketkeeper-batter and opener. Rumors suggest a trade involving Ravichandran Ashwin and Shivam Dube or Rachin Ravindra, with an additional ₹8.25 crore cash deal to RR. However, CSK considers Dube a valuable asset and may retain him.
CSK is also linked with Donovan Ferreira in a potential swap for Ravindra, aiming to bolster their middle order. Fans are buzzing about Suresh Raina and Dwayne Bravo possibly joining as batting and bowling coaches, respectively, signaling a major overhaul.
Mumbai Indians (MI): Targeting Leadership and Firepower
MI is reportedly chasing Rishabh Pant from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after his underwhelming IPL 2025 performance despite a record-breaking ₹27 crore price tag. MI sees Pant as a long-term Indian leader and finisher, potentially offering a multi-player swap or top Indian talents like Ishan Kishan or Washington Sundar.
Additionally, MI is eyeing Liam Livingstone from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to add middle-order dynamism and Sikandar Raza in the mini-auction for all-round depth.
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Rebuilding After Historic Win
Fresh off their maiden IPL 2025 title under Rajat Patidar, RCB is looking to refine their squad. They may release Liam Livingstone and Tim David due to inconsistent performances, with LSG and MI showing interest in both. RCB is also rumored to target Venkatesh Iyer in the mini-auction to strengthen their batting core.
RCB’s focus is on retaining their winning combination while addressing gaps in their bowling attack, potentially seeking players like Tanush Kotian.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Aiming for Stability
Despite a disappointing IPL 2025, KKR is keen on maintaining their core. They’ve shown interest in Sanju Samson alongside CSK, though CSK remains the frontrunner. KKR is also linked with Jamie Smith in the auction to bolster their overseas options. With a limited auction purse after retaining six players, KKR’s trade strategy will focus on cost-effective swaps.
Rajasthan Royals (RR): Samson’s Future in Question
The potential departure of Sanju Samson is the biggest talking point for RR. If the CSK trade materializes, RR could gain Ashwin, Dube, or Ravindra, along with cash, to rebuild their squad. Reports also suggest Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dissatisfaction with RR’s management, which could lead to further trades.
RR is rumored to target Kartik Tyagi in the auction to strengthen their pace attack.
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Gujarat Titans (GT): Multi-Player Trade Rumors
GT is reportedly considering a trade involving Devon Conway from CSK in exchange for Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia, plus cash. Conway’s lackluster IPL 2025 (156 runs) has made him a trade candidate, while GT values Sundar and Tewatia’s all-round abilities. GT is also eyeing Cameron Green in the auction for batting depth.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG): Maxwell and Pant in Focus
LSG is linked with Glenn Maxwell from Punjab Kings (PBKS) to add an overseas match-winner. Maxwell’s poor run with RCB and PBKS makes him a trade candidate, with LSG potentially offering an Indian talent or cash. Meanwhile, Pant’s possible move to MI could see LSG gain significant assets in return.
LSG is also rumored to target Alzarri Joseph in the auction for pace bowling strength.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Avoiding Risky Moves
SRH is cautious after a mixed IPL 2025. They’re unlikely to pursue Wanindu Hasaranga due to fan backlash and past performance issues. Instead, SRH is linked with Jayden Seales in the auction to bolster their bowling. The franchise may also trade Ishan Kishan back to MI to free up purse space.
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Overhauling the Squad
PBKS, runners-up in IPL 2025, may release Sam Curran or Jamie Overton to revamp their squad. They’re also considering trading Kuldeep Sen to MI or GT. In the auction, PBKS is rumored to target Navdeep Saini for pace bowling depth.
Delhi Capitals (DC): Seeking Explosive Talent
DC is looking to add firepower, with Prithvi Shaw as a potential auction target. They may also trade underperforming players to free up salary cap space, focusing on versatile Indian talents to balance their squad.
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Why IPL 2026 Trades Matter
The trading window is a game-changer for IPL franchises. It allows teams to:
- Address Weaknesses: Fix gaps in batting, bowling, or all-round options.
- Manage Finances: Free up salary cap space for the mini-auction.
- Create Buzz: Big trades, like Samson’s potential move, spark fan excitement and shift team dynamics.
With the IPL 2026 season expanding to 84 matches in a double round-robin format, teams are under pressure gambeplay to build balanced squads.
Key Players to Watch in the IPL 2026 Trading Updates Window
- Sanju Samson: CSK’s top target could reshape both CSK and RR’s lineups.
- Rishabh Pant: MI’s interest could lead to a blockbuster deal.
- Devon Conway: A potential move to GT might rejuvenate his career.
- Glenn Maxwell: LSG’s interest could give him a fresh start.
A Thrilling Build-Up to IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 trading window is setting the stage for an electrifying season. With high-profile names like Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, and Glenn Maxwell potentially switching teams, fans can expect surprises that could redefine team strategies. As the mini-auction approaches, keep an eye on these developments to see how your favorite team shapes up for the double round-robin format in 2026.
1. What is the IPL 2026 trading window and how long does it last?
The IPL 2026 trading window is the period where franchises can trade players before the mini-auction. The first window started on June 10, 2025, and runs until one week before the auction. A second window will open post-auction and close about 30 days before the season starts.
2. Can IPL players be traded without their consent?
No, IPL trades require player consent. A trade cannot happen unless the player agrees to move to the new franchise.
3. Which player is CSK targeting as Dhoni’s successor?
Chennai Super Kings are eyeing Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson as MS Dhoni’s successor ahead of IPL 2026.
4. Is Rishabh Pant moving to Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026?
There are strong rumors suggesting Mumbai Indians are targeting Rishabh Pant in a blockbuster trade deal. However, no official confirmation has been made yet.
5. Who are the most talked-about players in the IPL 2026 trading window?
Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, Liam Livingstone, Glenn Maxwell, and Devon Conway are among the most discussed players in this trading window.
6. How will the IPL 2026 format affect team strategies?
With the IPL 2026 expanding to 84 matches in a double round-robin format, teams are focusing on depth, consistency, and injury backups while trading players.
7. Which team has made the most aggressive moves so far in IPL 2026 trading?
Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have shown the most aggressive intent with potential high-profile trades involving Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant, respectively.
8. When is the IPL 2026 mini-auction scheduled?
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is expected in early 2026, likely January, with official dates to be announced by the BCCI soon.
