Ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals (Rajasthan Royals) are preparing to make significant changes to their squad. The team's performance last season did not meet expectations, which is why the franchise is now planning to release three key players.
Sports News: Preparations for IPL 2026 have begun, and teams have intensified their brainstorming regarding changes to their respective squads. In line with this, Rajasthan Royals (Rajasthan Royals) are also poised to make major decisions. The team's performance last season fell short of expectations. Despite outstanding performances from acting captain Riyan Parag, young player Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, Rajasthan Royals finished ninth in the points table. Due to this, the team management is now planning to release some prominent players and make adjustments to the squad.
Sanju Samson's Departure Almost Certain
Discussions about dropping Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson from the team are most prevalent. According to sources, the franchise has decided to release him before the IPL 2026 auction. Last season, due to injuries, Samson could only play 9 matches, and his batting performance was also affected.
Sanju started his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals in 2013 and has since been one of the team's most reliable batsmen. He has scored 4704 runs for Rajasthan so far. However, persistent injuries and the pressure of captaincy have consistently impacted his performance.
Maheesh Theekshana and Shimron Hetmyer Also Under Threat
Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana was acquired by Rajasthan last season for INR 4.40 crore. However, his performance was disappointing. Theekshana took only 11 wickets throughout the season, with an economy of 9.26 and an average of over 37. The team management is now looking for a bowler who can be effective in both powerplay and death overs. In such a scenario, Rajasthan might release Theekshana and opt for better spin alternatives.
West Indies star batsman Shimron Hetmyer's performance has been declining over the past few seasons. Retained for INR 11 crore, Hetmyer scored only 239 runs in 14 matches in 2025. His performance in the finisher's role failed to live up to the team's expectations. Since the 2022 season, Hetmyer has not managed to cross the 300-run mark in any single season. Rajasthan Royals are now preparing to release him and bet on a new finisher or an overseas power-hitter.
