by The cricket world is buzzing with excitement as the Indian Premier League gears up for another thrilling season.
After Royal Challengers Bangalore finally broke their trophy drought in 2025, fans are eagerly waiting to see what changes their favorite teams will make.
The trade window for IPL 2026 is now officially open, and franchises are already working hard to build stronger squads.
Trading players between teams has become a smart way for franchises to improve their chances without waiting for the auction.
Teams can swap players, pay cash, or make combination deals to get the stars they want.
This year’s trading season is expected to be extra exciting because many big names might switch teams.
The IPL 2026 Trade Players List is already creating waves among cricket fans and experts.
Some rumors have been cleared up, like Sanju Samson staying with the Rajasthan Royals, while other deals are still being discussed.
Players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Glenn Maxwell are at the center of major trade talks.
IPL 2026 Trade Players List
Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or someone who loves following team strategies, understanding these trades will help you stay ahead of all the action coming in the next season.
Latest Trade Rumors – IPL 2026 (As of Sept 2025)
The cricket community is actively discussing several potential trades that could reshape team dynamics for the upcoming season. Here’s what’s happening right now:
| Player Name | Current Team | Potential New Team | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanju Samson | Rajasthan Royals | Staying with RR | Confirmed |
| KL Rahul | Lucknow Super Giants | Delhi Capitals | Under Discussion |
| Devdutt Padikkal | Rajasthan Royals | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Likely Trade |
| Arshdeep Singh | Punjab Kings | Mumbai Indians | MI Interested |
| Shivam Dube | Chennai Super Kings | Royal Challengers Bangalore | RCB Eyeing |
| Rishabh Pant | Lucknow Super Giants | Mumbai Indians | Blockbuster Rumors |
The trade discussions are happening behind closed doors, but cricket journalists and team insiders are sharing updates regularly. Some deals might surprise everyone, just like when Hardik Pandya returned to the Mumbai Indians or when Cameron Green joined the RCB.
Key Points About Current Trade Talks:
- Rajasthan Royals have officially said they won’t trade any players
- Delhi Capitals are seriously looking at KL Rahul as their new leader
- Mumbai Indians want to add more firepower to their batting lineup
- Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings are talking about player exchanges
- Several overseas players are being considered for team swaps
How and When IPL Players’ Trade Takes Place?
Understanding how player trades work in the IPL can seem complicated, but it’s actually quite simple when broken down. The league has created specific rules to make sure trades are fair and happen at the right times.
The IPL gives teams two main opportunities each year to trade players. These are called “trading windows” – special time periods when teams can negotiate and complete player transfers without going through the auction process.
Why Teams Choose Trading:
- Get specific players they really want
- Save money compared to auction bidding wars
- Build better team chemistry and balance
- Fill specific skill gaps in their squad
- Plan long-term strategies with key players
Teams use trading to solve problems or strengthen weak areas in their squads. For example, if a team has too many batsmen but needs bowlers, they can trade a batsman for a bowler with another team that has the opposite problem.
Timing of Trading Windows
The IPL has set up two specific periods when teams can make trades. Knowing these timelines helps fans understand when to expect big announcements.
Pre-Auction Trade Window:
- Opens about one week after the IPL season ends
- Stays open until roughly one week before the player auction
- This is when most major trades happen
- Teams use this time to plan their auction strategy
Post-Auction Trade Window:
- Opens right after the auction finishes
- Remains open until one month before the next season starts
- Usually sees fewer trades but can have some surprises
- Teams make final adjustments to their squads
The pre-auction window is more popular because teams want to settle their main players before deciding who to bid for in the auction. This year’s pre-auction trading has already started, which is why we’re seeing so many rumors and discussions.
Eligibility for Player Trade
Not every player can be traded between teams. The IPL has specific rules about who is eligible for trading to keep things fair and organized.
Players Who Can Be Traded:
- Only players retained by their franchise before the auction
- Players who were part of the team in the previous season
- Both Indian and overseas players (following foreign player limits)
- Players whose contracts allow for trading
Players Who Cannot Be Traded:
- Players who were just bought in the most recent auction
- Players released by their teams
- Players who specifically request not to be traded
- Players whose contracts have special no-trade clauses
This system ensures that teams can’t just buy players in the auction and immediately trade them for profit. It also protects players who want to stay with their current teams.
Types of Trades
Teams have different ways to make trades depending on what they want to achieve. Each type of trade serves different purposes and helps teams solve various problems.
Cash-Only Trades:
- One team pays money to get a player
- Simple and quick to complete
- Helps teams free up salary space
- Common for role players and younger talents
Player-for-Player Exchanges:
- Two teams swap players directly
- No money changes hands
- Both teams get what they specifically need
- Requires players of similar value
Combination Trades:
- Mix of player exchange plus cash payment
- Used when player values don’t match exactly
- Allows more creative deal-making
- Most flexible option for complex trades
Teams often prefer player exchanges because they address specific needs without spending extra money. However, cash trades are popular when a team wants to reduce their spending or when they can’t find the right player to swap.
List of Expected Trade Players for IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 Trade Players List includes several big names that could change teams before the next season. These players represent different skills and price points, giving teams various options to improve their squads.
Each potential trade has its own story and reasons. Some players want new challenges, others don’t fit their current team’s strategy, and some teams need to make space for new signings. Let’s look at the most talked-about players who might switch teams.
Sanju Samson Will Stay with RR in IPL 2026 – Trade Rumors Shut Down
The biggest trade rumor of the season has been officially put to rest. Sanju Samson, the talented wicketkeeper-batsman from Kerala, will continue playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026.
Earlier in July, cricket fans got excited when Samson posted a mysterious Instagram story with a yellow line and wrote “Time to Move…!!” along with a Tamil song. This made everyone think he might join the Chennai Super Kings, since yellow is CSK’s team color.
Why the Rumors Started:
- Samson played only 9 matches in IPL 2025
- He scored 285 runs with just one fifty
- Rajasthan Royals finished 9th in the points table
- Riyan Parag even captained some matches when Samson was injured
However, Rajasthan Royals management has made it crystal clear that Samson isn’t going anywhere. A team source told The Times of India that RR has no plans to trade Samson or any other players. They confirmed he remains their captain and a key part of their plans.
The rumors died down completely when Samson met with RR’s Head of International Player Development, Siddhartha Lahiri, in July. Lahiri posted a photo from their lunch meeting, calling it “great fun” with “the skipper.”
Venkatesh Iyer to RCB
Venkatesh Iyer’s potential move to Royal Challengers Bangalore represents one of the most interesting trades being discussed. Kolkata Knight Riders bought him for 24 crores in 2025, making him the most expensive all-rounder purchase in IPL history.
Unfortunately, Iyer’s 2025 season didn’t live up to the massive price tag. His poor performance has made KKR open to trade discussions, while RCB sees an opportunity to strengthen their Indian batting core.
What Makes Iyer Attractive to RCB:
- Left-handed batting adds variety to their lineup
- Can bowl medium pace when needed
- Provides flexibility to bat anywhere in the order
- Has experience opening the batting
- Offers stability in the middle order
RCB has always struggled to find the right balance between Indian and overseas players. Iyer could solve multiple problems for them – providing batting depth, bowling options, and Indian player quota fulfillment.
KKR might consider the trade if RCB offers a strong bowling asset in return. Both teams could benefit from this swap if the right terms are negotiated.
Glenn Maxwell to LSG or CSK
Glenn Maxwell’s potential departure from his current team has caught everyone’s attention. After three disappointing seasons with RCB and Punjab Kings, the Australian all-rounder might get a fresh start with either Lucknow Super Giants or Chennai Super Kings.
Maxwell brings incredible value as an overseas player who can change matches single-handedly. His power-hitting ability and handy off-spin bowling make him attractive to multiple franchises.
Why Teams Want Maxwell:
- Proven match-winner in T20 cricket
- Can accelerate scoring in the middle overs
- Provides crucial bowling overs when needed
- Experienced in handling pressure situations
- Leadership qualities and team mentorship
LSG and CSK are both looking for an overseas player who can provide instant impact. Maxwell fits perfectly into their plans for building a more balanced and explosive lineup.
Punjab Kings might be willing to trade him to free up salary space for other signings. They could use the money or players received in return to strengthen other areas of their team.
Liam Livingstone to MI or LSG
Liam Livingstone’s situation represents a classic case of unfulfilled potential. RCB bought the English all-rounder expecting explosive middle-order stability, but he couldn’t meet their expectations throughout the 2025 season.
Livingstone managed just one fifty during the entire season and failed to make an impact with his bowling. This disappointing performance has made RCB consider trading him, especially since players like Romario Shepherd and Tim David performed much better.
Livingstone’s Strengths That Attract Other Teams:
- Massive power-hitting ability
- Can bowl useful medium-pace overs
- Experienced in various T20 leagues worldwide
- Flexible batting position from 3 to 7
- Good fielder in crucial positions
Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants both had mixed seasons in 2025 and are eager to add more firepower to their middle order. Livingstone’s ability to change games quickly makes him an attractive option for teams looking to improve their batting depth.
A change of environment might help Livingstone rediscover his best form. Sometimes players perform better when they get a fresh start with new teammates and coaching staff.
Rishabh Pant to MI
The potential trade of Rishabh Pant represents the most blockbuster deal being discussed for IPL 2026. LSG made headlines by buying Pant for a record-breaking 27 crores in 2025, but his performance throughout the season was disappointing except for a century in the final match.
Mumbai Indians are reportedly very interested in acquiring Pant as their long-term Indian leader and finisher. They see him as someone who can provide both explosive batting and captaincy experience.
What Makes This Trade Complex:
- Pant’s huge salary makes trading difficult
- LSG would need an equivalent value in return
- MI would have to offer its top Indian players
- Multiple players might be involved in the swap
- Both teams need to agree on the financial aspects
Pant’s Value to Mumbai Indians:
- Fearless batting style fits MI’s aggressive approach
- Leadership experience as a former Delhi Capitals captain
- Wicketkeeping skills provide tactical flexibility
- Young enough to be a long-term investment
- Proven performer in high-pressure situations
This trade would require creative deal-making from both sides. MI might need to offer a combination of players and cash to match Pant’s value and salary requirements.
Sam Curran to GT
Sam Curran’s potential move to the Gujarat Titans makes perfect sense from both teams’ perspectives. After David Miller left for LSG in 2025, GT needs another explosive player who can contribute with both bat and ball.
Curran performed well for Chennai Super Kings in 2025, showing his value as a complete all-rounder. His left-arm seam bowling and aggressive lower-order batting make him an ideal fit for GT’s playing style.
Curran’s Contributions to Gujarat Titans:
- Left-arm pace bowling adds variety to their attack
- Fearless batting provides finishing power
- International experience in pressure situations
- Can bowl in powerplay and death overs
- Flexible batting position based on the match situation
GT’s strategy has always focused on finding players who can contribute in multiple ways. Curran perfectly fits this philosophy and could strengthen their squad significantly.
CSK might be willing to trade Curran if they get good value in return or if they have identified other players who fit their needs better.
Kamindu Mendis to GT
Kamindu Mendis represents an exciting young talent that Gujarat Titans are targeting for IPL 2026. The Sri Lankan all-rounder gained attention for his unique ambidextrous spin bowling – he can bowl both left-arm orthodox and off-spin effectively.
Mendis played 5 matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2025, where he showed glimpses of his genuine talent. His versatile bowling and adaptable batting make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add depth.
Mendis’s Unique Skills:
- Can bowl both left-arm spin and off-spin
- Adaptable batting style for different situations
- Young player with huge potential for growth
- Economical bowling option in the middle overs
- Adds international diversity to the squad
If Mendis joins the Gujarat Titans, he would complement Sai Kishore in their spin bowling department. Having two quality spinners gives teams more tactical options, especially on turning pitches.
GT has always been good at identifying and developing young international talent. Mendis could flourish under their guidance and become a key player for the future.
What’s the Deal with IPL 2026 Trades?
Understanding the current trading scenario requires looking at the bigger picture of how teams are approaching squad building. The trade window serves as a strategic tool for franchises to fine-tune their teams before the mini-auction in December.
Teams are using trades to solve specific problems rather than making random changes. Each potential trade has clear reasoning behind it – whether it’s getting better balance, saving money, or acquiring players who fit specific roles.
Current Trading Trends:
- Teams want multi-skilled players who offer flexibility
- Indian players are highly valued due to quota restrictions
- Experience and leadership qualities are premium assets
- Teams prefer players who have succeeded in the IPL before
- Financial considerations play a major role in all decisions
The IPL 2026 Trade Players List reflects these trends, with most rumored trades involving experienced players who can immediately contribute to their new teams.
What Fans Should Expect:
- Some surprise deals that nobody saw coming
- Last-minute changes before the trading deadline
- More trades involving cash rather than player swaps
- Young players are being traded for experienced ones
- Teams making bold moves to address weak areas
Conclusion: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
The trading season for IPL 2026 promises to be full of excitement and surprises. While some situations have been clarified – like Sanju Samson staying with Rajasthan Royals – many other deals are still being negotiated behind closed doors.
The IPL 2026 Trade Players List continues to evolve as teams assess their needs and explore available options. Players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Glenn Maxwell remain at the center of major discussions that could reshape multiple franchises.
Key Takeaways for Cricket Fans:
- Not all rumors turn into actual trades
- Teams prioritize long-term planning over short-term fixes
- Player preferences and contracts influence trade possibilities
- Financial aspects often determine whether deals happen
- The mini-auction will reveal the final impact of all trades
Players Likely to Stay: Sanju Samson (confirmed with RR)
Players Likely to Move: Devdutt Padikkal (to SRH), Venkatesh Iyer (potentially to RCB)
Blockbuster Possibilities: Rishabh Pant (to MI), Glenn Maxwell (to LSG/CSK)
The trading drama doesn’t end with trophy presentations. Off-field negotiations are just as thrilling as on-field performances, and the IPL 2026 Trade Players List will keep evolving until the deadline.
Cricket fans should stay tuned for official announcements and be prepared for some last-minute surprises that could change the competitive balance of the league.
The real fun has just begun, and the next few weeks will determine which teams come out as winners in the trading game.
Authority Sources for IPL Trade Information
For the most reliable and updated information about IPL trades, fans should check these official sources:
Stay updated with official team social media accounts for the most current trade announcements and confirmations.
