Deepak Chahar Out? 3 Highly Releasable Candidates From MI Ahead Of IPL 2026

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Deepak Chahar [Source: @HustlerCSK, @MIPaltanFamily/x.com]Deepak Chahar [Source: @HustlerCSK, @MIPaltanFamily/x.com]

Mumbai Indians' campaign in IPL 2025 concluded in heartbreak as they succumbed in Qualifier 2 against Punjab Kings, prolonging their title drought to a frustrating five-year span. As the illustrious five-time champions recalibrate for IPL 2026, comprehensive squad restructuring appears inevitable to remedy the glaring deficiencies exposed throughout the preceding season. 

Adhering to their customary philosophy of measured roster adjustments, MI remain poised to execute calculated releases aimed at optimising their fiscal resources and squad equilibrium. Here are three players who may find themselves thrust back into the auction marketplace.

1. Deepak Chahar

The prime candidate for release remains Deepak Chahar, whose performances failed to justify his hefty ₹9.25 crore price tag. The right-arm seamer's disappointing return of just 11 wickets in 14 innings, coupled with a concerning economy rate of 9.17, represents a significant strategic miscalculation. His underwhelming contributions, combined with the substantial budget relief his departure would provide, make him the frontrunner for the exit door. With MI desperately needing reliable support for Jasprit Bumrah, Chahar's persistent inconsistency has proved both costly and counterproductive.

2. Robin Minz

Robin Minz for MI [Source: @academy_dinda/x.com]Robin Minz for MI [Source: @academy_dinda/x.com]

Young wicket-keeper Robin Minz was acquired for ₹65 lakhs. He struggled to make any meaningful impact during his debut IPL season. His debut appearance against Chennai Super Kings produced a dismal three runs from nine deliveries, highlighting his struggles at the elite level. Despite receiving limited opportunities, Minz failed to demonstrate the promise that initially earned him an IPL contract. With MI likely seeking more experienced backup options for proven domestic talent, the Jharkhan player's future appears increasingly uncertain.

3. Reece Topley 

English left-arm pacer Reece Topley's recurring injury problems make him a risky investment despite his undeniable talent. During the IPL 2025 season, MI utilised him in only one game, and he failed to deliver in that opportunity. Given the current setup of the MI squad, he appears somewhat redundant and could therefore be released ahead of the next season.

These strategic releases would free up approximately ₹10-11 crores in budget allocation while creating essential space for targeted acquisitions. MI's focus on strengthening their bowling depth and middle-order stability makes these moves logical stepping stones toward reclaiming their championship legacy in 2026.