Ravi Bishnoi and Wanindu Hasaranga (Source: AFP)
The fact that cannot be denied is that IPL 2026 retention brought several surprises, as multiple teams released big-name players ahead of the mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. With several franchises looking to strengthen their spin departments, these released spinners could become the most sought-after names at the auction.
It is important to mention that spinners are always high-value assets in the IPL. With Indian and overseas quality spinners hard to find, many of these players are expected to ignite intense bidding wars. Here is a detailed look at the major spin options available and the teams likely to chase them.
Ravi Bishnoi (released by LSG)
Lucknow Super Giants decided to release Ravi Bishnoi ahead of IPL 2026, and this decision shocked many fans. After being released by LSG, several franchises will want to attain his services and will keep a watchful eye on him, making him one of the most valuable players in the auction pool.
However, it is important to note that he had a difficult season and scalped just 9 wickets in 11 matches at an economy of 10.84. However, his age, raw talent, and experience ensure he will remain in high demand.
| Stats | Value |
| Year | 2025 |
| Innings | 11 |
| Wickets | 9 |
| Econ | 10.83 |
(Ravi Bishnoi's stats in IPL 2025)
Teams that could bid for Ravi Bishnoi
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – With the highest purse (₹64.3 crore), KKR can get Ravi Bishnoi. He could add more power to KKR's spin bowling department along with Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy.
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – With Jadeja traded to RR, Ashwin being retired, and only Noor Ahmed as a frontline spinner, CSK badly need a reliable Indian spin option. Bishnoi could become their long-term asset.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – After releasing Rahul Chahar and Adam Zampa, SRH lack a frontline spinner. Bishnoi should be their top target as well.
Vignesh Puthur (released by MI)
The Mumbai Indians' decided to release Vignesh Puthur ahead of IPL 2026. In IPL 2025, he took six wickets in five matches, including a memorable spell that dismissed three CSK batters. His ability to bowl tight, attacking left-arm wrist-spin made him a key future prospect for MI.
However, repeated shin injuries forced MI to release him while he continues rehabilitation. Even with his fitness concerns, if he is fit, teams may take a risk on him.
| Player Name | Innings | Wickets | Economy |
| Vignesh Puthur | 5 | 6 | 9.08 |
(Vignesh Puthur's IPL 2025 stats)
Teams that could bid for Vignesh Puthur
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – CSK will want to invest in spinners and value homegrown talent. Vignesh Puthur could be a long-term investment for the 'Yellow Army'.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – RCB will also want to invest in an spinner that can support Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya. Puthur’s variations and control could make him an attractive target for the defending champions.
Wanindu Hasaranga (released by RR)
Despite a quiet 2025 season with Rajasthan Royals, the fact cannot be denied that Wanindu Hasaranga is still one of the best T20 leg-spinner all-rounders. He has played 233 T20 games with 2439 runs and 325 wickets, including 46 wickets in 37 IPL matches.
His accurate leg-spin, wicket-taking ability, and lower-order hitting make him a valuable overseas package.
Teams that could bid for Wanindu Hasaranga
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – With Zampa released, SRH have an overseas spinner slot open. Hasaranga fits their aggressive style perfectly.
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – CSK love multi-dimensional overseas players, and Hasaranga provides both spin and batting depth.
Rahul Chahar (released by SRH)
Rahul Chahar may have played only one match for SRH in IPL 2025, but he remains a proven wicket-taker in the IPL. In the cash-rich league, Rahul Chahar has played 79 matches and taken 75 wickets at an average of 28.66 and an economy of 7.72.
His wrist-spin continues to be effective in the middle overs, and he is still young with significant game left in him.
Teams that could bid for Rahul Chahar
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – KKR, with their massive purse, are expected to be one of the strongest bidders for Rahul Chahar. He can also complement Narine and Chakravarthy, giving KKR diverse spin options. He can also offer middle-overs wickets, and being an Indian spinner, it will also give KKR flexibility with overseas slots.
