5 players MI might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have long been one of the most successful and competitive teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In IPL 2025, they reached the playoffs but lost Eliminator against Gujarat Titans (GT), ending their campaign earlier than they would have liked.

While MI managed to build a relatively new squad that showed some promise, the team fell short of its usual high standards. With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, the franchise may look to revamp certain areas of the squad. On that note, let us take a look at five players MI might release ahead of the next auction.

5 players MI can release ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Deepak Chahar

The Uttar Pradesh-born pacer Deepak Chahar could be released by the five-time champions. Chahar spent six years with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) before joining MI for the 2025 season. However, his performances did not justify his price, as he picked up only 11 wickets in 14 matches.

MI might seek alternative options for their powerplay bowling to strengthen their pace attack alongside frontline pacers Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah, ensuring a more consistent and penetrating bowling lineup.