With the IPL 2026 retention deadline nearing, Mumbai Indians might make a few tough calls — from Deepak Chahar to Karn Sharma, here are five players who could be on the release list.
Mumbai Indians’ Big Decisions Before IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 retention deadline is almost here — November 15, to be exact — and all ten franchises are getting ready to announce which players they’ll keep and which ones they’ll let go.
For Mumbai Indians (MI), this could be a crucial reset moment. Despite having one of the most star-studded squads in the league, MI’s recent campaigns haven’t quite lived up to expectations. That means some familiar faces could be on the chopping block before the IPL 2026 auction.
Here are five players Mumbai Indians could release to free up funds and refresh their squad for the new season.
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1. Reece Topley
England’s left-arm pacer Reece Topley was signed by MI for ₹75 lakh, but his stint in the 2025 season was barely noticeable. He played just one match and didn’t make much of an impact. With plenty of bowling options already in the mix, MI might look to release Topley and scout for a younger, more consistent overseas quick.
2. Lizaad Williams
Another overseas pacer who didn’t get a chance to shine was South Africa’s Lizaad Williams. Picked up for ₹75 lakh, he didn’t feature in a single match during the season. Given Mumbai’s deep bench strength, Williams could be one of the easier names to release ahead of the auction.
3. Bevon Jacobs
Bevon Jacobs was bought for ₹30 lakh, most likely as a backup option — but he never got a game in the 2025 season. MI might not hold onto him this time, especially if they’re planning to bring in younger Indian talent or another all-rounder who can contribute across formats.
4. Deepak Chahar
Now, this one could be a surprise. Deepak Chahar, who joined MI for a hefty ₹9.25 crore, picked up 11 wickets in 14 matches last season. While those are decent numbers, MI might be tempted to part ways with the 33-year-old pacer to make room (and budget) for a younger, fitter fast bowler. His release could free up a big chunk of funds for the 2026 auction.
5. Karn Sharma
Veteran spinner Karn Sharma was bought for ₹50 lakh and played six matches last season. While he’s a seasoned IPL campaigner, MI might look for a fresh spin option to strengthen their middle overs. With age and competition in the squad, Karn’s name could be on the list of probable releases.
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What It Means for MI
Releasing these players could give Mumbai Indians a fresh start — both financially and strategically. With Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah expected to stay, MI will likely focus on building a balanced squad around their core group.
The IPL 2026 auction will be a chance for the franchise to bounce back stronger, possibly with a few surprise signings in their bid for a sixth title.
