The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is getting closer and will take place on December 16, 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
With only a month left, all ten franchises were asked to submit their retention and release lists. The deadline was November 15 at 3 PM IST. The upcoming IPL season is expected to run from March 15 to May 31.
Teams are now busy balancing their squads. They are preparing for the auction while also making important retention calls. Franchises are using the trade window to strengthen their line-ups. Some are choosing all-cash trades. Others are completing player swaps to bring in cricketers they want before the auction begins.
Big Trades confirmed ahead of IPL 2026
Mumbai Indians (MI) have been the most active side so far. They have made two cash signings. Shardul Thakur has joined MI from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was an all-cash deal worth INR 2 crore.
MI also signed West Indies batter Sherfane Rutherford. He moved from Gujarat Titans (GT) for INR 2.6 crore.
One of the biggest trades of this cycle was a high-profile swap. Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson has moved to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
In return, RR have received star all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
This swap has become the most talked-about deal ahead of the mini-auction. Fans and experts believe this trade will have a major impact on both teams.
Another confirmed move is the transfer of Arjun Tendulkar. He has been traded from MI to LSG.
The deal was made at his base price. These trades show how franchises are trying to secure key players early. Teams want to enter the auction with strong cores and clear strategies.
With the retention lists now submitted, the IPL governing council will release the long player pool soon.
Franchises will study this list carefully. From it, the final auction group will be formed. With the mini-auction just weeks away, excitement is building. Teams are preparing for one of the most important days of the IPL off-season. Fans are waiting to see which players will attract big bids and how the squads will change.
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