4 Players Rajasthan Royals Might Release Before IPL 2026 Auction: Sanju Samson, Shimron Hetmyer And...

Captain Sanju Samson's relationship with Rajasthan Royals has not exactly been the way it used to be and he has decided to part ways with the franchise. According to an ESPNcricinfo report, Sanju Samson has told Rajasthan Royals that he wants to be released ahead of the upcoming auction for IPL 2026 season. The report added that Samson informed the RR management of his intention immediately after IPL 2025 ended. Royals haven't given Samson a definitive answer but it's very unlikely that India wicket-keeper batter will stay at the franchise. (Pic credit: IANS)  

Sanju Samson who has played for both Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) has scored 4704 runs in 177 IPL matches at an average of 30.94 and strike rate of 139.04 so far. (Pic credit: IANS)  

Tushar Deshpande was picked by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 6.50 crore during the mega auction. After showing his wicket-taking ability and fighting spirit at CSK in the last few editions, Tushar failed to deliver with the ball for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 season.

Tushar picked 9 wickets in 10 matches of IPL 2025 with an poor economy rate of 10.62 before getting dropped from the Rajasthan Royals playing XI in the last few matches. Given his ordinary show with the ball, Tushar might be released by Rajasthan Royals before the IPL 2026 auction. (Pic credit: IANS)

Tushar Deshpande, who emerged as the CSK's highest wicket-taker in their title-winning campaign in 2023, has picked 51 wickets in 46 IPL matches so far. (Pic credit: IANS)

Shimron Hetmyer, the destructive finisher was retained by Rajasthan Royals for 11 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 season. However, Hetmyer failed to finish crucial games for RR during the IPL 2025 season.

The 28-year-old Hetmyer scored 239 runs in 14 matches of IPL 2025 with an average of 21.72 and strike rate of 145.73. Considering his ordinary performance and high salary, Rajasthan Royals might consider releasing Hetmyer to buy someone new for the finisher's role during the IPL 2026 auction. (Pic credit: IANS)

Shimron Hetmyer, who is known for his aggressive batting and finishing abilities, has scored 1482 runs in 86 IPL matches with an average of 29.05 and strike rate of 151.84 so far. (Pic credit: IANS)

Wanindu Hasaranga was picked by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 5.25 crore during the IPL mega auction. The franchise had high hopes from the Sri Lankan spinner but he failed to deliver up to the expectations. Hasaranga picked 11 wickets in 11 matches of IPL 2025 with an economy rate of 9.04. Given his ordinary performance with the ball, RR might consider releasing Hasaranga before the IPL 2026 auction. (Pic credit: IANS)

Wanindu Hasaranga, who is a popular choice in global franchise leagues, has picked 46 wickets in 37 matches with an economy rate of 8.41 during his IPL career so far. (Pic credit: IANS)