IPL 2026 Trade Players List – Rumors, Confirmed Deals & Full Breakdown

IPL 2025 will be remembered as the season when Royal Challengers Bangalore finally ended their title drought.

After years of heartbreak, RCB lifted their first-ever IPL trophy, sending millions of fans into celebration mode.

But in the IPL world, there’s no time to rest. The trophy presentation is barely over, and the buzz around IPL 2026 has already begun.

The pre-auction trade window is officially open, and franchises are working overtime to reshuffle their squads.

Big names are being discussed in boardrooms across India. Sanju Samson to CSK? KL Rahul to Delhi Capitals? Glenn Maxwell looking for a new home?

Some rumors have been shut down quickly, while others are gaining serious momentum.

According to reports, Rajasthan Royals have confirmed Sanju Samson isn’t going anywhere.

But names like Devdutt Padikkal, Arshdeep Singh, and Shivam Dube are still very much in play.

IPL 2026 Trade Players List

For more IPL news, analysis, and expert insights on cricket trades and transfers, visit Cricket Bureau – your trusted source for everything cricket!

Here’s a detailed look at all the confirmed trades, ongoing talks, and possible surprises waiting for IPL 2026.

Understanding IPL Player Trades

Before we dive into the juicy rumors, let’s understand how IPL trades actually work.

The IPL has specific periods called “trade windows” where teams can negotiate player transfers without going through the auction. Think of it like the football transfer window, but with cricket’s own set of rules.

When Do Trades Happen?

There are two trading windows:

• Pre-Auction Trade Window: Opens about a week after the IPL season ends and stays open until roughly a week before the player auction.
• Post-Auction Trade Window: Opens after the auction and remains active until about a month before the next IPL season begins.

Who Can Be Traded?

Only players who are retained by their franchise before the auction are eligible for trading. If a player is bought fresh in the auction, they can’t be traded during the post-auction window. This rule keeps things fair and prevents last-minute chaos.

Types of Trades:

Trade Type	Description	Example
Cash Deal	One franchise pays another an agreed amount for the player	Team A pays ₹5 crore to Team B for Player X
Player Swap	Two franchises exchange players directly	Team A gets Player X, Team B gets Player Y
Swap + Cash	A mix of player exchange plus additional money	Team A gets Player X + ₹2 crore for Player Y

It’s all about finding the right balance. Teams look at their weaknesses, identify available players who can fill those gaps, and then negotiate with other franchises.

Confirmed and Rumored IPL 2026 Trades (As of September 2025)

The IPL 2026 Trade Players List is already creating waves among fans. Here’s the latest snapshot of where things stand:

Player	Current Team	Rumored Destination	Status
Sanju Samson	Rajasthan Royals	—	Staying with RR
KL Rahul	Lucknow Super Giants	Delhi Capitals	Talks ongoing
Devdutt Padikkal	Rajasthan Royals	Sunrisers Hyderabad	Likely move
Arshdeep Singh	Punjab Kings	Mumbai Indians	On MI’s radar
Shivam Dube	Chennai Super Kings	Royal Challengers Bangalore	Possible return
Sai Sudharsan	Gujarat Titans	Chennai Super Kings	Internal discussions
Shahrukh Khan	Gujarat Titans	Chennai Super Kings	Internal discussions
Venkatesh Iyer	Kolkata Knight Riders	Royal Challengers Bangalore	Under consideration
Glenn Maxwell	Punjab Kings	LSG/CSK	Exploring options
Rishabh Pant	Lucknow Super Giants	Mumbai Indians	Blockbuster talks

Some of these are just whispers in cricket circles. Others are serious negotiations that could reshape team dynamics completely.

Let’s break down the biggest stories from the IPL 2026 trade window.

Sanju Samson Will Stay with RR – Rumors Shut Down

The biggest trade rumor of July 2025 was about Sanju Samson potentially moving to the Chennai Super Kings.

It all started when Samson posted a cryptic Instagram story with a yellow line and the caption “Time to Move…!!” along with a Tamil song. Fans immediately connected the dots: yellow = CSK, Tamil song = Chennai. The speculation went wild.

CSK reportedly showed interest in bringing the Kerala wicketkeeper-batsman to their squad. After MS Dhoni’s retirement, they’ve been looking for a dynamic Indian wicketkeeper who can also captain the side.

Samson had a tough IPL 2025, playing just 9 matches due to injury and scoring 285 runs with one fifty. RR finished 9th in the points table, and Riyan Parag even took over captaincy duties during Samson’s absence.

But the Rajasthan Royals have put all rumors to rest.

As per a Times of India report, a franchise source confirmed: “RR have decided not to trade Samson or any of their players for now. Samson is very much a part of the Royals’ set-up and the undisputed captain of the team.”

On July 16, Samson met with RR’s Head of International Player Development, Siddhartha Lahiri. Lahiri posted a photo from their meeting with the caption, “Lunch with the skipper is always great fun.”

Case closed. Samson stays in pink.

Venkatesh Iyer to RCB (Possible Trade)

Venkatesh Iyer was the headline grab of the IPL 2025 auction when KKR bought him for a whopping ₹24 crores – the highest-ever bid for an Indian all-rounder.

But the 2025 season didn’t go as planned. Iyer struggled with both bat and ball, failing to justify his massive price tag. KKR had high hopes, but the results just weren’t there.

Now, Royal Challengers Bangalore are reportedly interested.

RCB wants to strengthen their Indian batting core with a genuine all-round option. Iyer’s left-handed batting and medium-pace bowling make him an attractive prospect.

He can provide stability in the middle order or even open the innings if needed. His ability to bat in different positions gives RCB the flexibility they’ve been craving.

KKR might consider a trade if RCB offers a strong bowling asset in return. With the mega auction coming up, KKR could use the opportunity to rebuild its squad with better balance.

Glenn Maxwell to LSG or CSK (Rumored Move)

Glenn Maxwell has had three disappointing IPL seasons in a row with RCB and then the Punjab Kings.

The Australian superstar, known for his explosive batting and handy off-spin, couldn’t deliver the match-winning performances expected of him. Age isn’t on his side either, and his form has been a concern.

Now, both Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings are showing interest.

LSG wants an overseas match-winner who can provide power-hitting and bowl a few overs when needed. CSK, always smart with experienced players, sees value in Maxwell’s big-match temperament.

Punjab Kings might trade him to free up their purse and bring in younger blood. If LSG offers a promising Indian talent or a good cash deal, PBKS could pull the trigger.

Maxwell’s ability to win games single-handedly – when in form – still makes him a valuable asset. A change of environment might be exactly what he needs to rediscover his best.

Liam Livingstone to MI or LSG (Likely Move)

Liam Livingstone joined RCB with high expectations. The English all-rounder was supposed to provide explosive stability in the middle order.

But it didn’t work out. He managed just one fifty throughout IPL 2025 and failed to make an impact with the ball either.

RCB also has Romario Shepherd and Tim David, who performed consistently in 2025. With limited overseas slots, Livingstone became expendable.

Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, both looking to add firepower and flexibility in their middle order, are keen on him.

MI wants a middle-order enforcer who can also bowl useful overs. LSG sees him as a player who can change games when he gets going.

His T20 record in international cricket is still impressive. A fresh start with a new franchise might help him rediscover the form that made him one of England’s most feared white-ball players.

Rishabh Pant to MI (Blockbuster Trade Rumor)

This is the big one. The trade that could shake up the entire IPL.

Rishabh Pant was the sensation of IPL 2025 when LSG bought him for a record-breaking ₹27 crores. The hype was massive. Expectations were sky-high.

But except for a brilliant century in the final match, Pant’s season was underwhelming. LSG had invested heavily, and the returns weren’t there.

Now, the Mumbai Indians are reportedly interested in bringing him to the franchise.

MI is looking for a long-term Indian leader and an X-factor finisher. Pant’s fearless batting style and leadership qualities have impressed them. With Rohit Sharma’s future uncertain, MI sees Pant as a potential captain for the next era.

But here’s the challenge: a trade of this magnitude would require a blockbuster offer.

LSG won’t let go of their ₹27 crore investment easily. MI would need to offer either their top Indian players or arrange a multi-player swap to match Pant’s value and star power.

If this trade happens, it would be the biggest in IPL history.

Sam Curran to GT (Possible Addition)

Gujarat Titans have a gap to fill. When David Miller moved to LSG in 2025, GT lost their explosive finisher in the lower middle order.

Enter Sam Curran.

The English all-rounder contributed with both bat and ball for CSK in 2025. His left-arm seam bowling adds variety to any attack, and his fearless batting down the order makes him a valuable asset.

GT wants him for exactly these reasons.

Curran’s ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death, combined with his lower-order hitting, fits GT’s requirements perfectly. He can bat anywhere from number 6 to 8, giving the team flexibility.

CSK might be willing to trade him if they get a good deal. With their focus on grooming younger Indian talent, letting Curran go for the right price makes sense.

For GT, Curran could be the missing piece in their puzzle for IPL 2026.

Kamindu Mendis to GT (Rising Talent on Radar)

Here’s a name not many casual fans know yet: Kamindu Mendis.

The Sri Lankan all-rounder has a unique skill – he can bowl both left-arm orthodox spin and off-spin. Yes, he’s ambidextrous with the ball. How cool is that?

Mendis played 5 matches for SRH in IPL 2025 and showed glimpses of his talent. His adaptable batting in the middle order caught attention, too.

Gujarat Titans are now interested in bringing him on board.

GT’s spin department could use reinforcement, and Mendis offers something different. Pairing him with Sai Kishore would give GT a strong Indian spin duo.

Plus, his batting ability in pressure situations adds extra value. In T20 cricket, having players who can contribute in multiple ways is gold.

If this trade materializes, Mendis could be GT’s surprise weapon for IPL 2026.

What Makes IPL Trades So Exciting?

IPL trades create drama even before the auction begins. Fans love the speculation, the rumors, and the surprise announcements.

Remember when Hardik Pandya returned to the Mumbai Indians? The announcement broke the internet. Or when Cameron Green moved to RCB – fans went crazy analyzing how he’d fit in.

Trades give struggling players fresh starts. They help teams fix weaknesses without spending big in auctions. And they create storylines that keep fans engaged year-round.

Social media goes wild with every rumor. Fans create graphics showing players in new jerseys. Cricket experts debate whether trades make sense. Memes flood Twitter and Instagram.

It’s this off-season drama that makes IPL more than just cricket. It’s entertainment, emotion, and business all rolled into one.

Timeline – IPL 2026 Trade Window Explained Simply

Here’s how the trade calendar works for IPL 2026:

Pre-Auction Trade Window:

• Opens approximately one week after the IPL 2025 season ended (May 2025)
• Stays open until about one week before the IPL 2026 mini-auction
• Most active period for big trades and player swaps

IPL 2026 Mini-Auction:

• Expected in December 2025
• Teams finalize squads after completing trades
• Fresh players enter the pool

Post-Auction Trade Window:

• Opens after the auction concludes
• Remains active until approximately one month before IPL 2026 begins
• Usually sees smaller, strategic moves

Final Trade Deadline:

• Expected around February 2026
• Last chance for teams to make changes before the tournament

IPL 2026 Season Start:

• Likely March-April 2026
• No trades allowed once the season begins

Expected Upcoming Moves – What to Watch For?

The IPL 2026 Trade Players List is still evolving. Several deals are in discussion stages, and fans should watch out for these developments:

• KL Rahul’s Future: The LSG captain’s situation remains open. Delhi Capitals want him badly, but LSG values his leadership. This saga could go down to the wire.
• Arshdeep Singh to MI: Mumbai Indians need quality Indian pace bowlers. Arshdeep fits the bill perfectly. Punjab Kings might trade him if the offer is right.
• Sai Sudharsan & Shahrukh Khan Swap: Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings are in internal talks about potentially swapping these two promising Indian talents. Both teams see value in what the other has.
• Young Indian Pacers on the Move: Several franchises are looking for Indian fast bowlers who can bowl at 140+ km/h. Names like Akash Deep, Yash Dayal, and Mohit Sharma are being discussed.
• Overseas Spin Options: With IPL moving to different venues, teams want mystery spinners. Expect trades involving overseas spinners who can bamboozle batsmen.

Stay tuned to CricketBureau.com for the latest updates on all IPL 2026 trades, auction news, and expert analysis!

FAQs About IPL 2026 Trades

• Who are the confirmed trade players for IPL 2026?

As of now, no trades are 100% confirmed. However, strong rumors suggest Devdutt Padikkal to SRH is likely, and talks are ongoing for KL Rahul to DC, Arshdeep to MI, and Shivam Dube to RCB. Sanju Samson has been confirmed to stay with RR.

• When will the IPL 2026 auction take place?

The IPL 2026 mini-auction is expected to take place in December 2025. The exact date will be announced by the BCCI closer to the event.

• Can teams still trade players after the auction?

Yes, the post-auction trade window opens after the auction and stays open until approximately one month before IPL 2026 begins. Teams can make strategic moves during this period as well.

• Which player has the highest trade value for IPL 2026?

Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul are among the highest trade value players. Pant was bought for ₹27 crores, making any trade involving him a blockbuster deal. KL Rahul’s captaincy experience and consistent performance also give him significant value.

• How do IPL trades affect team budgets?

In cash deals, the buying team pays the selling team, but this doesn’t affect their auction purse. In player swaps, both teams exchange contracts, so salary adjustments are made accordingly. Teams must stay within salary cap limits throughout.

• Can a player reject an IPL trade?

No, players cannot directly reject trades in IPL. However, teams usually consider player preferences before finalizing trades to maintain squad harmony and player morale.

Final Thoughts – Who’s In, Who’s Out?

The IPL 2026 trade window is delivering exactly what fans love – drama, speculation, and surprise announcements.

Sanju Samson staying with RR put one big rumor to rest. But the situations around KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Glenn Maxwell, and others remain fluid.

Some trades make perfect sense on paper. Others might shock everyone when they’re announced. That’s the beauty of the IPL – you never know what’s coming next.

Franchises are playing chess, not checkers. Every move is strategic. Every trade could tip the balance of power in the tournament.

For players, it’s about finding the right fit. For teams, it’s about building championship squads. For fans, it’s about enjoying the ride.

One thing is guaranteed: when the final IPL 2026 Trade Players List is revealed, social media will explode. Debates will rage. Memes will flow.

In the IPL, even the off-season delivers full-on drama – and IPL 2026 is shaping up to be no different!

Stay Updated: For more IPL 2026 news, player analysis, trade updates, and cricket insights, bookmark CricketBureau.com – your complete cricket companion!

The IPL trade window remains open, and surprises are just around the corner. Keep watching this space for breaking news and expert analysis!