Rajasthan Royals Face Crucial Retention Decisions
The upcoming IPL 2026 mini-auction is set to be a decisive event for Rajasthan Royals (RR), who are expected to make several tough calls regarding their squad composition. With the player retention deadline approaching on November 15, 2025, the franchise must evaluate performances, salaries, and team balance before finalizing their list. The auction, scheduled between December 13–15, 2025, provides RR an opportunity to rebuild key areas after another inconsistent campaign. So let’s look at Rajasthan Royals IPL 2026 player releases.
Sanju Samson – Captain’s Future Under Doubt
Sanju Samson, RR’s long-time skipper and one of their most dependable batters, faces an uncertain future with the franchise. Reports suggest there may be internal disagreements between Samson and management over player retention strategies, especially after the decision to release Jos Buttler. Though Samson has delivered solid performances, RR may opt for a leadership overhaul to refresh their approach. Releasing Samson would be a bold move, potentially signaling a new era and captaincy shift within the team.
Shimron Hetmyer – Struggles with Form and Consistency
West Indian power-hitter Shimron Hetmyer has been one of RR’s most explosive yet inconsistent players. Despite his reputation as a finisher, Hetmyer’s form dipped significantly in IPL 2025, raising questions about his long-term value. Given his high salary and status as an overseas player, RR might part ways with him to free up budget space and pursue a more reliable lower-order hitter.
Maheesh Theekshana – Limited Impact in Spin Department
Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana has shown flashes of brilliance but failed to make a lasting impression in the 2025 season. With several Indian spinners such as Yuzvendra Chahal and Rahul Chahar in contention, RR could prioritize homegrown options. Releasing Theekshana would allow the team to add an all-rounder or a more versatile overseas bowler.
Shubham Dubey – Inconsistent Domestic Performer
Indian batter Shubham Dubey was signed to strengthen the middle order but couldn’t translate potential into consistent runs. As RR aims to fortify its Indian core, Dubey may be released to create room for promising domestic talent or experienced middle-order batters.
Fazalhaq Farooqi – Overseas Pacer on the Edge
Afghan left-arm pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi had a modest IPL 2025 campaign and struggled to cement his place. With Jofra Archer and other foreign pacers already in the mix, Farooqi might be released as RR seeks more variety and depth in their pace attack.
A New Look for RR in IPL 2026
Rajasthan Royals’ possible releases — including senior players like Samson and Hetmyer — indicate a major reshuffle ahead of IPL 2026. These strategic moves could help RR fix long-standing inconsistencies, refresh leadership, and build a more balanced unit for the upcoming season.
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