The IPL 2025 season could see some big names on the release list. Last year, franchises went all out, spending crores on marquee signings. But a year later, many of those investments haven’t delivered the returns expected. From inconsistent form to fitness woes, a few high-profile players now stand on shaky ground. Here are five big-money IPL stars who might be released ahead of the next season.
- Venkatesh Iyer (₹23.75 Crore – KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders spent a fortune to keep Venkatesh Iyer, but his performances in IPL 2025 didn’t justify the price tag. In 11 matches, he managed just 142 runs at an average of 20 and a strike rate of 139. KKR might value continuity, but even if they want him back, they could easily repurchase him at a much lower price in the IPL 2026 auction.
- Shimron Hetmyer (₹11 Crore – RR)
Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive batting once made him a fan favourite at Rajasthan Royals, but his recent form has dipped. In IPL 2025, he scored 239 runs at an average of 22 with just one fifty. His CPL 2025 numbers were worse: 210 runs in 12 matches, including nine single-digit scores. For ₹11 crore, that’s poor value, and RR might consider releasing him.
- Marcus Stoinis (₹11 Crore – PBKS)
Nicknamed The Hulk, Marcus Stoinis had a quiet season. His strike rate of 186 looks great on paper, but he didn't score a single fifty and took just one wicket at an economy of 12+. With players like Shashank Singh offering better impact as a finisher, Punjab could release Stoinis to free up funds.
- Mayank Yadav (₹11 Crore – LSG)
India’s fastest bowler has also been one of its most injury-prone. Mayank Yadav played only 2 matches last season, taking two wickets but conceding at over 12.5 runs per over. Lucknow Super Giants might have emotional reasons to retain him, but financially, it’s a tough call.
- T. Natarajan (₹10.75 Crore – DC)
Once a death-bowling specialist, T. Natarajan played just one IPL game in 2025, conceding 49 runs in three overs. In the TNPL, he picked up 10 wickets from 9 matches, decent, but not worth ₹10.75 crore. Delhi Capitals could look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
As IPL 2026 reshuffles begin, these big-money signings could be the first casualties. Teams are expected to make smarter, performance-based decisions because in the IPL, form will most likely always take precedence.
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