Key reasons why CSK-reject Devon Conway might go unsold in IPL 2026 auction

Rajgeeta Yadav

Devon Conway has been released by CSK [Source: AFP]Devon Conway has been released by CSK [Source: AFP]

The Indian Premier League 2026 mini auction is just around the corner, and fans are expecting intense bidding wars, especially after several teams have unexpectedly released some big names. The auction is set to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16. 

One of the most surprising releases ahead of the event is New Zealand opening batter Devon Conway, who has been let go by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). CSK finished at the bottom of the table in the previous season with only three wins, and as part of rebuilding their squad, they released Conway despite buying him earlier for ₹6.25 crore. 

Notably, the kiwi batter joined the franchise in 2022 and became an important player for them, but his performance in 2025 did not match earlier standards.

Now that Conway is in the auction pool, many fans wonder whether other franchises will pick him. However, there are strong possibilities that he might go unsold, and there are three major reasons why.

1. Poor form in the IPL and T20s

To begin with, Conway’s recent form has been disappointing. He was brilliant in the 2023 IPL season, scoring 672 runs in 15 innings at an average of 51.69, which made him one of the most reliable openers. 

However, in IPL 2025, things went downhill. After missing the 2024 season because of injury, he returned hoping to make a strong comeback, but instead he scored only 156 runs in six innings with an average of 26 and a strike rate of 131.09. Considering the high price paid for him, the return was not enough for CSK.

Criteria
Stats
Innings12
Runs267
S/R125.94
Avg33.38

[Devon Conway's IPL 2025 stats]

Additionally, his form at the international level has also taken a dip. In 2025, he has played 12 T20Is for New Zealand and managed only 267 runs, showing inconsistency in the shortest format. Therefore, because both his IPL and international performances have been below expectations, many teams may hesitate to bid for him.

2. Tough competition from better openers

Secondly, the competition for opening batsmen this year is extremely high. Many teams have already retained their top openers, which means fewer franchises are actually searching for players in that role. 

Although teams like KKR and Delhi Capitals do need openers, the mini auction also features several other batters like Quinton de Kock and Tim Seifert, who are in better form and more aggressive than Conway.

As a result, even though Conway is a skilled player, he might get overshadowed by others who are performing more consistently at the moment. Therefore, the strong competition in his category could reduce his chances of being picked.

3. Age and fitness concerns

Lastly, age and fitness may also play a role. Conway has turned 34, and over the past few years he has struggled with injuries and form inconsistency. While he has scored 1080 runs in 29 IPL matches overall, franchises now prefer younger, fitter, and more explosive batters who can be long-term options. 

Since his strike rate has shown a decline and fitness concerns remain, some teams may not want to take the risk of spending money on him.