As anticipation grows for the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026), all eyes are on the upcoming Trade Window and the highly anticipated Mini Auction. While the official auction date is yet to be confirmed, December 2025 seems like the most likely period, and franchises are already strategizing, particularly with regard to their bowling attacks.
In a format dominated by explosive batting, bowlers are often the unsung heroes. A match-defining spell can reverse the fortunes of a season, making retention decisions vitally important for all ten franchises. Here’s a team-by-team analysis of the likely retained bowlers list heading into IPL 2026.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans are expected to retain approximately 12 bowlers, ensuring a core group remains intact. Rashid Khan and Mohammed Siraj will spearhead the attack, with support from Prasidh Krishna, R Sai Kishore, and Washington Sundar to offer a blend of pace and spin. Promising talents like Arshad Khan, Kulwant Khejroliya, and Gerald Coetzee are also likely to be retained.
The main question mark hangs over Kagiso Rabada. Considering his high price tag and inconsistent form in 2025, GT may choose to release him, freeing up funds for a younger, more dependable option during the Trade Window.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians are set to prioritize bolstering their bowling depth, potentially retaining 14 bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah remains the linchpin of MI’s attack, with Trent Boult, Hardik Pandya, Mitchell Santner, and Deepak Chahar forming the experienced core.
The team is also expected to back emerging talents such as Allah Ghazanfar, Arjun Tendulkar, and Raj Bawa. MI’s approach indicates a focus on strategic additions during the Trade Window, rather than a complete overhaul.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Despite a mixed performance in 2025, KKR is likely to retain its core bowling group. Harshit Rana, Anrich Nortje, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell are almost certain to remain.
Moeen Ali, Umran Malik, and Mayank Markande offer a range of bowling options, as well as all-round contributions. KKR is expected to scout for death-bowling specialists during the Trade Window to strengthen their late-overs attack.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Fresh from winning their inaugural IPL title in 2025, RCB is unlikely to disrupt their successful team composition. Their core retention list will include Josh Hazlewood, Lungi Ngidi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Suyash Sharma, and Romario Shepherd.
Krunal Pandya and Yash Dayal provide additional balance to a well-rounded unit. With limited areas for improvement, RCB may primarily utilize the Trade Window for backup options or injury cover.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Despite finishing 10th last season, CSK’s bowling core remains strong. Matheesha Pathirana, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Ravindra Jadeja, and Sam Curran will lead their attack, with Nathan Ellis and Shivam Dube providing backup.
CSK is likely to explore the Trade Window for young Indian pacers, aiming to increase variety in their Powerplay and death-bowling strategies.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG is projected to retain 11 bowlers, with Avesh Khan, Ravi Bishnoi, and Shardul Thakur forming the core Indian group. Overseas pacer Will O’Rourke impressed in 2025 and will likely be retained, along with Mitchell Marsh for his all-round value.
With solid bench strength, LSG may utilize the Trade Window to acquire an experienced death-bowling specialist.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH is set to retain around 10 bowlers, with Pat Cummins leading the attack. Ehsan Malinga, Simarjeet Singh, Harshal Patel, and Jaydev Unadkat are also expected to stay.
However, Mohammed Shami and Rahul Chahar’s futures are uncertain due to their inconsistent form. SRH may explore the Trade Window to find replacements or negotiate more cost-effective deals.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
DC could undertake a mini-revamp of their bowling department, retaining only a small core of five bowlers – Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, and Mukesh Kumar.
The Capitals are expected to release several high-cost players and focus on young Indian talent during the Trade Window, possibly targeting uncapped pacers who can offer depth at a lower price.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
RR depends heavily on overseas bowlers, and Jofra Archer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Nandre Burger are expected to be at the top of their retained list. Indian players like Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande provide balance.
The franchise may look to bring in additional Indian spinners through the Trade Window, ensuring a deeper spin attack for turning pitches.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
PBKS, the 2025 runners-up, are likely to retain most of their bowling unit. Arshdeep Singh, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, and Harpreet Brar are key names, while Yuzvendra Chahal, despite his price tag, is likely to stay given his wicket-taking record.
The Kings may look to strengthen their bench via the Trade Window, particularly with Indian fast-bowling talent.
As the Trade Window nears, franchises face tough decisions, balancing budget, form, and long-term strategy. Retaining core bowlers is essential, but the upcoming trades could significantly shape how competitive each squad looks when IPL 2026 kicks off.
