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 Deepak Chahar Bowling (Source: IPL/X) 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. AM Ghazanfar AM Ghazanfar. (Photo source: Getty Images) Afghanistan leg-spinner AM Ghazanfar is another player who could be released. Despite being bought at a significant price, Ghazanfar did not play a single match in IPL 2025. With Mitchell Santner leading the spin attack and several young spinners performing well, Ghazanfar’s inclusion became redundant. His limited national presence and average performances in recent tournaments like the Blast 2025 further reduce his chances of retention. Dropping him could free up resources for MI to invest in more impactful spin options. Reece Topley Reece Topley. (Photo source: Getty Images) England pacer Reece Topley might also be released ahead of IPL 2026. He featured in only one match during the 2025 season, and with Trent Boult leading the pace attack alongside other Indian bowlers, Topley’s presence offered minimal impact. MI may prefer to groom a young, promising pacer who can contribute consistently over multiple seasons, making Topley expendable for the franchise. Lizaad Williams Lizaad Williams. (Source -Twitter/X) The right-arm pacer Lizaad Williams is another likely release. He did not play any match in IPL 2025 and was largely considered a backup bowler for MI, spending most of the season in net practice sessions. Given his lack of on-field opportunities, releasing him would allow MI to invest in emerging fast bowlers who can make an immediate impact in matches. Karn Sharma Karn Sharma (Source: SAJJAD HUSSAIN/AFP via Getty Images) The experienced Indian leg-spinner Karn Sharma could also be dropped. He played six games in IPL 2025, picking seven wickets with a decent economy rate. However, his bowling was largely predictable, allowing batters to score with ease. MI may look to replace him with a more dynamic spinner capable of containing runs and taking crucial wickets in pressure situations.

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5 players MI might release ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Mumbai Indians (MI) finished fourth in IPL 2025 with eight wins.

Karn Sharma

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